It is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that jointly caring for a pet post-separation is ill-advised. Most will argue such arrangements hinder ex-partners from healing, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and are a nuisance for all parties. Seemingly, in a revelation worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to experience sadness.
While respecting the inner life of our pets – countless people observe their remarkable empathy. If you need masterclass in pet despair, consider another performance. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type brought to life by Gus the Dog, would have a hard time coping with life in two homes. If this concept an entire Christmas romance on this conflict is sustainable seems a questionable prospect.Standard Holiday Fare
To its credit, Merv, crafted by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than what it is. This is a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the ambitions are modest. The plot is destined to be uncomplicated: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their individual funk is matched by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will undoubtedly realize the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – including Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – fulfill roles quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. The film's look has the quality of a streaming service original, with a holiday backdrop that is visibly contrived – exemplified by fake snow piled on green trees as a warm climate stands in for a wintery Boston.
The Canine Charisma
If these predictable parts coalesce into an entertaining watch depends on the execution and an acceptance of easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv targets a specific viewer – the kind who seek out for pet content. Audiences receive a plethora of scenes focused on the pet. The primary selling point is the canine star, and while this leads to some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and the actors' responses, the movie does offer walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
The same praise cannot be applied for the human side of the story. The film's approach shifts uneasily between relationship drama, zany antics, formulaic romance, and silly gags, not quite landing a consistent feel. The fault lies not with the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe required by the bizarre setting. His performance contains a endearing lack of ego that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, injects a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal can feel a little too aloof, particularly when contrasted against Cox's vulnerable performance. (For what it's worth, the canine performer manages looking despondent – not quite the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he remains a scene-stealer.)
Merv tries to provide depth to the couple's history for sequences focusing solely on them – a bit of a pity, considering Merv is by far the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it achieves only baseline competence. The reason for their separation could have been more grounded and mature with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, meeting every expected note. Crafting a story with this canine conflict has potential – even if I wouldn't call it a brilliant concept.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video starting December 10.
