It is a common warning among many that sharing custody a pet post-separation is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such setups prevent individuals from healing, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and prove frustrating for everyone involved. As it turns out, and in a twist worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the canine in question to feel down.
Not to downplay the inner life of dogs – countless people observe their deep emotional capacity. For a prime example in dog sorrow, one need only look a past film. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type played by Gus the Dog, would find it difficult adjusting to life in two homes. Whether this premise a feature-length romcom on such a setup is sustainable remains debatable at best.A Familiar Formula
Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of the writing duo and helmed by playwright Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims more profound than what it is. We have here a seasonal offering from a corporate studio – the depth is limited. Its storyline proves to be uncomplicated: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, forced to acknowledge that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, embark on a cheer-up vacation to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will presumably realize the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – featuring familiar faces – are crafted as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. The film's look carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is obviously artificial – think obvious snow effects surrounding green trees as a warm climate substitutes for the Northeast.
The Canine Charisma
Whether these predictable parts come together into something enjoyable rests upon the execution and an acceptance of comfort viewing. On the latter point, Merv knows its audience – those people who seek out for dog videos. It provides a plethora of canine-centric sequences. The central draw is the canine star, and though it results in some awkward editing between what the dog does and people's faces, the movie succeeds in showing canine party antics, pet moping, and, ultimately, doggie joy.
The Two-Legged Cast
The same praise does not extend for the romantic plot. Its style vacillates between emotional depth, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and outright slapstick, never fully committing to a consistent feel. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny demanded of the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a charming humility that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, true to her usual style, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna can feel a bit too dry, especially when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (For what it's worth, Gus the Dog is convincing at looking despondent – he may not be Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains a scene-stealer.)
Merv tries to provide depth to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, considering Merv is undoubtedly the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it just about gets by. The cause for their original breakup could have been more adult and realistic with more screen time and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling all its marks. Crafting a story with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – even if it's not exactly a stroke of genius.
- Merv streams on Prime Video starting December 10.
