This is a common warning in certain circles that sharing custody a pet following a split is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such situations impede ex-partners from finding closure, cause practical headaches, fuel disputes, and become annoying for everyone involved. Apparently, in a revelation fit for a streaming movie, it also makes the dogs themselves to become depressed.
While respecting the mental health of dogs – pet parents attest to their profound sensitivity. For a standout portrayal in dog sorrow, simply recall recent cinema. I firmly believe that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would have a hard time coping with life in two homes. Whether this premise a feature-length romcom around this situation is sustainable is a questionable prospect.Predictable Foundations
Honestly, Merv, the work of its screenwriters and helmed by playwright Jessica Swale, never aspires to be anything more than a light film. We have here a holiday release from a corporate studio – the complexity are modest. The narrative unfolds as uncomplicated: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, take a therapeutic trip to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will surely stumble toward the idea that they are better together. The supporting cast – featuring familiar faces – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. The film's look carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – as seen in obvious snow effects surrounding lush pines as a warm climate doubles as a wintery Boston.
The Dog's Domain
If these predictable parts come together into something enjoyable depends on the actors' work and one's taste for cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who seek out for pet content. Audiences receive a series of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is the dog, and though it results in some stilted moments between animal action and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing dog beach fun, canine sorrow, and, in the end, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
The same praise does not extend for the human side of the story. Its style shifts uneasily between serious study, zany antics, predictable love story, and physical comedy, not quite landing any one mode. This is not Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe demanded of the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a charming humility that offers much of the film's charm for this ostensibly perfect couple. Her co-star Deschanel, true to her usual style, brings a certain millennial quirkiness that will click for some but not others. Her portrayal seems a touch too detached, especially when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (For what it's worth, Merv himself succeeds in looking despondent – while no the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he's definitely an excellent dog.)
The story strives to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for sequences focusing solely on them – which is unfortunate, since the title character is by far the cutest element of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it meets the bare minimum. The cause for their separation would feel more adult and realistic with less exposition and less blunt explanation. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, meeting every expected note. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting has potential – even if I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv streams on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.
