It is a common warning in certain circles that jointly caring for a dog following a split is ill-advised. The consensus suggests such setups prevent individuals from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, fuel disputes, 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 experience sadness.
Without minimizing the inner life of dogs – countless people attest to their profound sensitivity. For a prime example in canine melancholy, one need only look another performance. It seems certain that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix played by Gus the Dog, would find it difficult adjusting to life in two homes. The idea of basing a feature-length romcom on such a setup is sustainable remains a questionable prospect.A Familiar Formula
To its credit, Merv, written by the writing duo and helmed by playwright Jessica Swale, never aspires to be deeper than its premise. This is a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the depth is limited. The plot unfolds as uncomplicated: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, take a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will undoubtedly stumble toward the idea that they are better together. The supporting cast – including familiar faces – are crafted as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually has the quality of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is clearly manufactured – exemplified by fake snow clinging to green trees as a summer location doubles as a cold December city.
The Canine Charisma
How these familiar elements come together into something enjoyable rests upon the strength of the performances and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – those people who scroll endlessly for pet content. The film delivers a plethora of canine-centric sequences. The primary selling point is the dog, and though it results in some clunky cuts between what the dog does and the actors' responses, the movie does offer walking sequences, dog depression, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
Where It Wobbles
The same praise does not extend for the interpersonal drama. Its style shifts uneasily between serious study, wacky comedy, predictable love story, and outright slapstick, not quite landing a single genre. This is not the actor playing Russ, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe inherent in the unusual premise. He brings a endearing lack of ego that offers much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, imparts a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. The character seems a touch too detached, especially when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (It should be noted, Merv himself manages acting depressed – he may not be a canine thespian of that caliber, he remains a very good boy.)
The film attempts to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, given that the dog is easily the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. As one might predict, it just about gets by. The catalyst for the split would feel more nuanced with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling all its marks. Crafting a story on this shared-custody premise is not terrible – but it's not exactly a stroke of genius.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video this December.
