This is a common warning in certain circles that sharing custody a dog after a breakup is a terrible idea. The consensus suggests such setups prevent individuals from moving forward, cause practical headaches, spark arguments, and are a nuisance for all parties. Apparently, in a revelation suited to a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the dogs themselves to experience sadness.
Without minimizing the inner life of dogs – many owners speak of their profound sensitivity. If you need prime example in dog sorrow, consider a past film. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle adjusting to life in two homes. The idea of basing a feature-length romcom on this conflict works effectively remains a questionable prospect.Predictable Foundations
Honestly, Merv, the work of the writing duo and helmed by director Swale, makes no grand claims deeper than what it is. It functions as a holiday release from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the complexity is limited. The plot unfolds as simple and direct: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, embark on a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will presumably rediscover the idea that they should reunite. Ensemble players – including Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – serve as the usual assortment of types. The film's look has the quality of a streaming service original, with a holiday backdrop that is obviously artificial – exemplified by obvious snow effects clinging to verdant foliage as North Carolina stands in for a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
How these familiar elements coalesce into something enjoyable depends on the actors' work and one's taste for easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – the kind who seek out for cute animal clips. Audiences receive a series of scenes focused on the pet. The primary selling point is the canine star, and even if it causes some awkward editing between animal action and human reaction, the movie does offer walking sequences, dog depression, and, finally, a tail-wagging resolution.
The Two-Legged Cast
The same praise does not extend for the romantic plot. The film's approach wavers between serious study, zany antics, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, not quite landing any one mode. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the absurd and awkward inherent in the unusual premise. His performance contains a endearing lack of ego that supplies a significant portion of the appeal for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will click for some but not others. The character comes across as a little too aloof, notably when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (It should be noted, Gus the Dog is convincing at looking despondent – while no a canine thespian of that caliber, he's definitely a scene-stealer.)
Merv tries to provide depth to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, since Merv is easily the cutest element of this feel-good picture. As one might predict, it just about gets by. The reason for the split might seem more adult and realistic with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. As it stands, Merv is gentle and pleasant, hitting all its marks. Creating a movie on this shared-custody premise is not terrible – but it's not exactly a stroke of genius.
- Merv becomes available on Amazon Prime Video this December.
