This is a widely held belief for numerous people that sharing custody a dog post-separation is ill-advised. Most will argue such arrangements hinder ex-partners from moving forward, lead to scheduling chaos, spark arguments, and become annoying for all parties. Apparently, as a development suited to a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to feel down.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of our pets – countless people speak of their deep emotional capacity. To witness a standout portrayal in pet despair, consider a past film. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix portrayed by the canine actor Gus, would find it difficult adapting to divided living arrangements. If this concept a full holiday film on such a setup holds water seems rather doubtful.Predictable Foundations
Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of the writing duo and helmed by playwright Jessica Swale, never aspires to be more profound than its premise. This is a holiday release from a streaming platform giant – the depth is limited. The plot proves to be uncomplicated: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, embark on a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will surely rediscover the idea that they should reunite. Ensemble players – including familiar faces – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. The film's look has the quality of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – as seen in flurries clinging to green trees as a warm climate substitutes for a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
How these predictable parts merge into a pleasant experience depends on the execution and an acceptance of easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv knows its audience – the kind who seek out for pet content. It provides a wealth of adorable dog montages. The central draw is the dog, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between animal action and human reaction, the movie delivers on walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, in the end, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
Such effectiveness is not earned for the interpersonal drama. Its style wavers between emotional depth, zany antics, formulaic romance, and outright slapstick, not quite landing a consistent feel. The fault lies not with Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the absurd and awkward demanded of the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a charming humility that provides the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Anna's portrayer, as is her trademark, imparts a distinctive offbeat energy that will be to your taste or not. Her Anna can feel a little too aloof, notably when contrasted against Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, the canine performer is convincing at flopping and whining – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he's definitely a scene-stealer.)
The story strives to provide depth to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, since Merv is undoubtedly the best part of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The catalyst for the split might seem more nuanced with greater exploration and less blunt explanation. In the end, Merv is light and sugary, meeting every expected note. Making a film on this shared-custody premise isn't a bad idea – though I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.
- Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video this December.
