🔗 Share this article

It is a widely held belief for numerous people that jointly caring for a pet following a split is a terrible idea. The consensus suggests such situations hinder individuals from finding closure, cause practical headaches, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance for all parties. Seemingly, and in a twist worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the canine in question to become depressed.

While respecting the mental health of animals – countless people observe their deep emotional capacity. For a prime example in dog sorrow, simply recall a past film. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a spirited little dog played by the canine actor Gus, would have a hard time adjusting to divided living arrangements. Whether this premise an entire Christmas romance on such a setup is sustainable seems a questionable prospect.

Predictable Foundations

To its credit, Merv, crafted by the writing duo and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, never aspires to be more profound than a light film. It functions as a seasonal offering from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the ambitions is limited. Its storyline unfolds as straightforward: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, forced to acknowledge that their own sadness is rivaled only by their dog's, take a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will undoubtedly rediscover the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – featuring familiar faces – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually carries the feel of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – as seen in fake snow clinging to lush pines as a warm climate doubles as a wintery Boston.

Where the Film Shines

If these familiar elements coalesce into something enjoyable hinges on the actors' work and an acceptance of easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who seek out for cute animal clips. Audiences receive a wealth of adorable dog montages. The central draw is the dog, and though it results in some stilted moments between the pet's "lines" and the actors' responses, the movie delivers on dog beach fun, dog depression, and, in the end, a tail-wagging resolution.

Where It Wobbles

Such effectiveness does not extend for the interpersonal drama. Its style vacillates between serious study, zany antics, formulaic romance, and silly gags, never fully committing to a consistent feel. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward inherent in the bizarre setting. He brings a likable self-deprecation that provides much of the film's charm for this ostensibly perfect couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, imparts a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal comes across as a little too aloof, particularly when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, Merv himself succeeds in acting depressed – while no the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he remains a scene-stealer.)

The story strives to give weight to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, given that Merv is easily the best part of this cute-aiming movie. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The catalyst for their original breakup would feel more grounded and mature with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling precisely what you anticipate. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting is not terrible – but it's not exactly a brilliant concept.

• Merv streams on Prime Video this December.