It is an often-repeated piece of advice for numerous people that sharing custody a dog after a breakup is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such setups hinder former couples from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and are a nuisance for everyone involved. Apparently, and in a twist worthy of a streaming movie, it can even cause the dogs themselves to become depressed.
Not to downplay the mental health of our pets – pet parents speak of their remarkable empathy. To witness a standout portrayal in pet despair, consider recent cinema. It seems certain that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult coping with life in two homes. Whether this premise a feature-length romcom around this situation is sustainable is debatable at best.A Familiar Formula
Honestly, Merv, the work of the writing duo and helmed by playwright Jessica Swale, never aspires to be deeper than a light film. It functions as a holiday release from a corporate studio – the depth remains surface-level. The plot unfolds as straightforward: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, forced to acknowledge that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will surely stumble toward the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – played by a group of comedic actors – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a holiday backdrop that is clearly manufactured – as seen in flurries clinging to lush pines as a warm climate stands in for a wintery Boston.
The Dog's Domain
Whether these familiar elements coalesce into something enjoyable depends on the execution and the viewer's appetite for comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – individuals who seek out for pet content. Audiences receive a wealth of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is the dog, and even if it causes some stilted moments between what the dog does and people's faces, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
The Two-Legged Cast
The same praise is not earned for the human side of the story. The tone vacillates between emotional depth, wacky comedy, standard rom-com beats, and outright slapstick, failing to master a consistent feel. This is not Cox's performance, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward demanded of the dog resort scenario. He brings a likable self-deprecation that offers a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, true to her usual style, brings a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna seems a bit too dry, particularly when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, Gus the Dog succeeds in flopping and whining – while no the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he is still an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to provide depth to the central romance for sequences focusing solely on them – which is unfortunate, considering the dog is undoubtedly the best part of this feel-good picture. Expectedly, it meets the bare minimum. The catalyst for the split might seem more nuanced with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling all its marks. Making a film with this canine conflict has potential – but I wouldn't call it a brilliant concept.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video starting December 10.
