🔗 Share this article

This is a widely held belief among many that jointly caring for a dog post-separation is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such situations hinder individuals from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and prove frustrating for all parties. Seemingly, and in a twist fit for a direct-to-platform film, it also makes our furry friends to experience sadness.

While respecting the emotional well-being of animals – pet parents observe their deep emotional capacity. If you need masterclass in canine melancholy, consider a past film. It seems certain that a dog like Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would have a hard time adapting to split households. Whether this premise an entire Christmas romance around this situation is sustainable seems a questionable prospect.

Standard Holiday Fare

To its credit, Merv, crafted by its screenwriters and helmed by director Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than what it is. It functions as a Christmas movie from a streaming platform giant – the depth are modest. The narrative is destined to be straightforward: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will presumably realize the idea that they belong with each other. Side characters – featuring a group of comedic actors – serve as the usual assortment of types. The film's look carries the feel of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – as seen in fake snow piled on green trees as a warm climate doubles as the Northeast.

The Dog's Domain

If these predictable parts come together into a pleasant experience rests upon the strength of the performances and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who scroll endlessly for pet content. The film delivers a plethora of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is Merv himself, and though it results in some awkward editing between what the dog does and the actors' responses, the movie does offer walking sequences, pet moping, and, ultimately, pure puppy happiness.

The Human Element

Such effectiveness does not extend for the romantic plot. Its style wavers between emotional depth, wacky comedy, predictable love story, and silly gags, never fully committing to a single genre. This is not Cox's performance, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward demanded of the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that offers much of the film's charm for this on-the-rocks couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal can feel a touch too detached, particularly when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, Merv himself is convincing at looking despondent – not quite the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he is still a scene-stealer.)

The story strives to give weight to Anna and Russ's relationship for sequences focusing solely on them – a regrettable choice, considering Merv is easily the best part of this film designed for charm. As one might predict, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for the split would feel more grounded and mature with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, meeting all its marks. Making a film about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – but it's hardly a great one either.

• Merv streams on Prime Video starting December 10.