This is a widely held belief for numerous people that jointly caring for a dog after a breakup is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such setups impede former couples from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and become annoying for everyone involved. Apparently, as a development worthy of a streaming movie, it can even cause the dogs themselves to experience sadness.
Not to downplay the inner life of animals – pet parents speak of their profound sensitivity. To witness a prime example in canine melancholy, one need only look a past film. It seems certain that a dog like Merv, a scruffy terrier type portrayed by Gus the Dog, would have a hard time adapting to divided living arrangements. If this concept a feature-length romcom on such a setup holds water is debatable at best.A Familiar Formula
Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of the writing duo and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, never aspires to be anything more than a light film. It functions as a seasonal offering from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the ambitions remains surface-level. The plot proves to be uncomplicated: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, embark on a cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will presumably stumble toward the idea that they should reunite. Side characters – played by Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – fulfill roles eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. The film's look is reminiscent of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is clearly manufactured – exemplified by fake snow piled on verdant foliage as North Carolina doubles as a cold December city.
Where the Film Shines
If these predictable parts come together into a pleasant experience depends on the actors' work and an acceptance of easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – those people who seek out for pet content. Audiences receive a wealth of scenes focused on the pet. The primary selling point is the canine star, and even if it causes some stilted moments between animal action and people's faces, the movie does offer canine party antics, canine sorrow, and, in the end, doggie joy.
The Human Element
The same praise cannot be applied for the human side of the story. Its style shifts uneasily between relationship drama, zany antics, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, never fully committing to a single genre. This is not Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe demanded of the unusual premise. He brings a charming humility that offers much of the film's charm for this ostensibly perfect couple. Anna's portrayer, true to her usual style, injects a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal can feel a bit too dry, notably when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, the canine performer succeeds in looking despondent – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still a very good boy.)
The story strives to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, considering Merv is by far the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The reason for their separation might seem more nuanced with greater exploration and more subtle storytelling. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling every expected note. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – even if I wouldn't call it a great one either.
- Merv premieres on Prime Video starting December 10.
