This is a widely held belief in certain circles that co-parenting a dog following a split is a recipe for trouble. The consensus suggests such situations impede ex-partners from healing, lead to scheduling chaos, lead to tension, and are a nuisance for everyone involved. Apparently, in a revelation worthy of a streaming movie, it also makes our furry friends to experience sadness.
Without minimizing the inner life of animals – many owners attest to their profound sensitivity. If you need masterclass in dog sorrow, consider a past film. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type played by Gus the Dog, would have a hard time adjusting to life in two homes. Whether this premise a feature-length romcom around this situation works effectively is debatable at best.Predictable Foundations
Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by the writing duo and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than a light film. This is a holiday release from a corporate studio – the ambitions remains surface-level. The plot unfolds as simple and direct: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their post-breakup gloom is rivaled only by their dog's, take a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will undoubtedly realize the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – including a group of comedic actors – serve as the usual assortment of types. The film's look carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is visibly contrived – think flurries surrounding green trees as a warm climate doubles as a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
If these predictable parts coalesce into an entertaining watch depends on the execution and one's taste for comfort viewing. For the comfort factor, Merv knows its audience – those people who browse regularly for cute animal clips. It provides a plethora of canine-centric sequences. The central draw is Merv himself, and even if it causes some stilted moments between animal action and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, finally, doggie joy.
The Human Element
This level of success is not earned for the romantic plot. The tone wavers between serious study, wacky comedy, predictable love story, and outright slapstick, not quite landing any one mode. This is not Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the absurd and awkward demanded of the unusual premise. He brings a endearing lack of ego that provides much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will click for some but not others. Her portrayal can feel a touch too detached, particularly when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (For what it's worth, Gus the Dog is convincing at looking despondent – not quite the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he remains a very good boy.)
The film attempts to add substance to the central romance for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, given that the title character is easily the cutest element of this feel-good picture. As one might predict, it meets the bare minimum. The cause for the split might seem more nuanced with greater exploration and less blunt explanation. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling all its marks. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – even if I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.
- Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video on December 10th.
