It is a widely held belief among many that co-parenting a dog post-separation is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such situations impede individuals from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and become annoying across the board. Seemingly, and in a twist worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it also makes our furry friends to experience sadness.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of our pets – pet parents attest to their remarkable empathy. To witness a prime example in dog sorrow, consider a past film. It seems certain that a dog of Merv's nature, a wired-hair terrier mix portrayed by Gus the Dog, would find it difficult coping with life in two homes. If this concept a feature-length romcom on this conflict holds water remains rather doubtful.Predictable Foundations
To its credit, Merv, written by the writing duo and helmed by director Swale, makes no grand claims more profound than what it is. We have here a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the depth are modest. The plot unfolds as uncomplicated: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), forced to acknowledge that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, embark on a cheer-up vacation to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will undoubtedly stumble toward the idea that they should reunite. Side characters – including familiar faces – fulfill roles eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Its aesthetic has the quality of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – exemplified by obvious snow effects clinging to lush pines as a warm climate substitutes for the Northeast.
Where the Film Shines
How these predictable parts merge into a pleasant experience hinges on the execution and one's taste for comfort viewing. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who seek out for dog videos. Audiences receive a wealth of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is the dog, and even if it causes some awkward editing between what the dog does and people's faces, the movie succeeds in showing dog beach fun, dog depression, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.
The Human Element
The same praise does not extend for the human side of the story. The tone vacillates between relationship drama, zany antics, standard rom-com beats, and silly gags, failing to master a single genre. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is fully game the absurd and awkward inherent in the bizarre setting. Cox exhibits a likable self-deprecation that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, true to her usual style, injects a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. The character seems a bit too dry, notably when alongside Cox's genuine sadness. (On another note, Merv himself is convincing at flopping and whining – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he remains an excellent dog.)
The film attempts to provide depth to the couple's history for sequences focusing solely on them – a bit of a pity, since the dog is undoubtedly the cutest element of this feel-good picture. As one might predict, it just about gets by. The cause for their separation would feel more nuanced with less exposition and more subtle storytelling. In the end, Merv is light and sugary, hitting all its marks. Making a film about dog co-parenting has potential – though it's not exactly a brilliant concept.
- Merv streams on Prime Video on December 10th.
