🔗 Share this article

It is a common warning in certain circles that co-parenting a dog following a split is a terrible idea. The consensus suggests such situations prevent former couples from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and are a nuisance across the board. Seemingly, in a revelation worthy of a streaming movie, it can even cause our furry friends to experience sadness.

While respecting the mental health of our pets – pet parents observe their deep emotional capacity. To witness a standout portrayal in pet despair, one need only look another performance. It seems certain that a dog of Merv's nature, a scruffy terrier type portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle adjusting to life in two homes. The idea of basing a full holiday film on this conflict works effectively is rather doubtful.

Standard Holiday Fare

To its credit, Merv, written by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and directed by director Swale, never aspires to be deeper than a light film. We have here a Christmas movie from a streaming platform giant – the ambitions is limited. The plot proves to be straightforward: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their individual funk is matched by their dog's, decide on a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. There, inevitably, they will presumably realize the idea that they should reunite. Side characters – including familiar faces – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. The film's look carries the feel of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – exemplified by obvious snow effects piled on verdant foliage as a warm climate substitutes for the Northeast.

Where the Film Shines

Whether these familiar elements merge into an entertaining watch hinges on the strength of the performances and the viewer's appetite for comfort viewing. On the latter point, Merv knows its audience – individuals who scroll endlessly for pet content. The film delivers a wealth of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is Merv himself, and though it results in some clunky cuts between animal action and human reaction, the movie delivers on canine party antics, dog depression, and, ultimately, doggie joy.

The Two-Legged Cast

Such effectiveness is not earned for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach vacillates between relationship drama, zany antics, formulaic romance, and silly gags, never fully committing to a single genre. The fault lies not with Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward inherent in the dog resort scenario. He brings a charming humility that offers much of the film's charm for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, injects a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna can feel a little too aloof, notably when paired with Cox's genuine sadness. (It should be noted, the canine performer is convincing at looking despondent – he may not be Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still a very good boy.)

The story strives to add substance to the couple's history for sequences focusing solely on them – which is unfortunate, since the dog is undoubtedly the cutest element of this film designed for charm. As one might predict, it just about gets by. The cause for the split might seem more grounded and mature with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling all its marks. Making a film on this shared-custody premise has potential – even if I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.

• Merv streams on Amazon Prime Video this December.