🔗 Share this article

It is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that jointly caring for a dog post-separation is a terrible idea. Most will argue such arrangements hinder former couples from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and are a nuisance across the board. As it turns out, and in a twist worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause the canine in question to become depressed.

Without minimizing the emotional well-being of animals – countless people attest to their remarkable empathy. To witness a prime example in dog sorrow, consider recent cinema. I firmly believe that a dog of Merv's nature, a wired-hair terrier mix brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult adapting to split households. If this concept a feature-length romcom around this situation is sustainable seems debatable at best.

A Familiar Formula

Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by the writing duo and helmed by Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than what it is. It functions as a holiday release from a corporate studio – the depth are modest. The narrative unfolds as uncomplicated: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their post-breakup gloom is rivaled only by their dog's, take a cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. There, inevitably, they will surely realize the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – played by familiar faces – serve as the usual assortment of types. The film's look has the quality of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – as seen in obvious snow effects clinging to lush pines as a summer location doubles as the Northeast.

The Canine Charisma

How these predictable parts coalesce into an entertaining watch hinges on the execution and an acceptance of comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – individuals who seek out for pet content. The film delivers a series of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is the dog, and while this leads to some stilted moments between the pet's "lines" and the actors' responses, the movie does offer canine party antics, pet moping, and, ultimately, pure puppy happiness.

Where It Wobbles

Such effectiveness is not earned for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach wavers between emotional depth, zany antics, formulaic romance, and silly gags, not quite landing any one mode. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe required by the bizarre setting. Cox exhibits a likable self-deprecation that supplies much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Anna's portrayer, as is her trademark, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will be to your taste or not. Her Anna can feel a bit too dry, notably when paired with Cox's genuine sadness. (It should be noted, Merv himself is convincing at acting depressed – not quite the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he remains an excellent dog.)

The film attempts to provide depth to the central romance for sequences focusing solely on them – which is unfortunate, since the dog is easily the cutest element of this film designed for charm. As one might predict, it meets the bare minimum. The catalyst for their separation might seem more grounded and mature with greater exploration and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, hitting every expected note. Creating a movie with this canine conflict is not terrible – even if it's hardly a stroke of genius.

• Merv streams on Prime Video on December 10th.