This is a common warning among many that sharing custody a dog post-separation is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such arrangements hinder former couples from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, fuel disputes, and prove frustrating for all parties. As it turns out, in a revelation worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the dogs themselves to experience sadness.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of dogs – countless people attest to their profound sensitivity. For a prime example in pet despair, one need only look a past film. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog played by Gus the Dog, would struggle adapting to split households. If this concept an entire Christmas romance on this conflict works effectively is a questionable prospect.Standard Holiday Fare
Honestly, Merv, the work of Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and under the guidance of director Swale, makes no grand claims more profound than its premise. We have here a seasonal offering from a corporate studio – the depth is limited. The narrative proves to be simple and direct: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. There, inevitably, they will undoubtedly realize the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – played by a group of comedic actors – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. The film's look has the quality of a platform's in-house production, with a wintry atmosphere that is clearly manufactured – as seen in fake snow surrounding verdant foliage as a summer location substitutes for a cold December city.
The Dog's Domain
How these predictable parts coalesce into an entertaining watch hinges on the strength of the performances and an acceptance of comfort viewing. On the latter point, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who browse regularly for dog videos. It provides a plethora of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is Merv himself, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and the actors' responses, the movie does offer walking sequences, dog depression, and, ultimately, pure puppy happiness.
The Human Element
This level of success is not earned for the human side of the story. The film's approach shifts uneasily between emotional depth, wacky comedy, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, failing to master a consistent feel. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is fully game the humiliating and funny inherent in the unusual premise. He brings a endearing lack of ego that supplies a significant portion of the appeal for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, true to her usual style, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal comes across as a bit too dry, notably when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (For what it's worth, the canine performer succeeds in acting depressed – while no the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he remains a very good boy.)
The film attempts to provide depth to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – which is unfortunate, considering Merv is by far the best part of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The reason for the split could have been more nuanced with less exposition and less blunt explanation. In the end, Merv is slight and sweet, meeting all its marks. Crafting a story on this shared-custody premise has potential – but I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.
- Merv streams on the Amazon platform this December.
