This is a common warning in certain circles that co-parenting a canine companion post-separation is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such setups prevent former couples from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance for all parties. As it turns out, and in a twist fit for a streaming movie, it can even cause the dogs themselves to feel down.
Not to downplay the emotional well-being of dogs – many owners speak of their profound sensitivity. If you need prime example in dog sorrow, consider a past film. It seems certain that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog played by Gus the Dog, would struggle adjusting to life in two homes. The idea of basing an entire Christmas romance on this conflict holds water remains rather doubtful.Standard Holiday Fare
Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, never aspires to be deeper than what it is. This is a Christmas movie from a streaming platform giant – the depth are modest. Its storyline is destined to be straightforward: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their own sadness is matched by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. There, inevitably, they will undoubtedly rediscover the idea that they should reunite. Ensemble players – featuring Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Its aesthetic carries the feel of a platform's in-house production, with a holiday backdrop that is visibly contrived – exemplified by fake snow clinging to lush pines as North Carolina stands in for a wintery Boston.
Where the Film Shines
How these familiar elements merge into an entertaining watch hinges on the actors' work and one's taste for easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv knows its audience – those people who scroll endlessly for pet content. It provides a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The central draw is the dog, and even if it causes some stilted moments between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie does offer canine party antics, dog depression, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.
The Two-Legged Cast
Such effectiveness does not extend for the human side of the story. The film's approach shifts uneasily between relationship drama, zany antics, standard rom-com beats, and silly gags, never fully committing to a single genre. The fault lies not with Charlie Cox, who is fully game the absurd and awkward required by the bizarre setting. He brings a charming humility that supplies the bulk of the chemistry for this on-the-rocks couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will be to your taste or not. Her portrayal comes across as a touch too detached, especially when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (For what it's worth, Merv himself is convincing at acting depressed – while no the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he's definitely a scene-stealer.)
The film attempts to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – which is unfortunate, since Merv is easily the best part of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it just about gets by. The cause for the split could have been more nuanced with less exposition and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, meeting precisely what you anticipate. Crafting a story on this shared-custody premise isn't a bad idea – though it's hardly a stroke of genius.
- Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video on December 10th.
