🔗 Share this article

It is a widely held belief among many that jointly caring for a pet after a breakup is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such situations prevent ex-partners from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and are a nuisance across the board. Seemingly, and in a twist worthy of a streaming movie, it also makes the canine in question to become depressed.

While respecting the emotional well-being of our pets – many owners observe their profound sensitivity. If you need masterclass in canine melancholy, consider a past film. I firmly believe that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog played by Gus the Dog, would struggle adapting to life in two homes. The idea of basing a feature-length romcom around this situation holds water seems rather doubtful.

Standard Holiday Fare

Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and directed by Jessica Swale, never aspires to be deeper than its premise. We have here a holiday release from a corporate studio – the depth are modest. The narrative unfolds as uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their own sadness is rivaled only by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will undoubtedly rediscover the idea that they are better together. The supporting cast – including Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is obviously artificial – as seen in fake snow clinging to verdant foliage as a warm climate stands in for the Northeast.

The Dog's Domain

If these standard ingredients come together into a pleasant experience depends on the actors' work and the viewer's appetite for cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv knows its audience – the kind who browse regularly for cute animal clips. It provides a wealth of adorable dog montages. 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, pet moping, and, in the end, a tail-wagging resolution.

The Two-Legged Cast

Such effectiveness cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. The tone shifts uneasily between relationship drama, wacky comedy, standard rom-com beats, and outright slapstick, never fully committing to a consistent feel. The fault lies not with Cox's performance, who is fully game the silliness and cringe inherent in the dog resort scenario. Cox exhibits a charming humility that supplies the bulk of the chemistry for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, injects a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal comes across as a bit too dry, especially when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (For what it's worth, Gus the Dog succeeds in flopping and whining – he may not be Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still an excellent dog.)

Merv tries to provide depth to the central romance for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, since the title character is by far the best part of this film designed for charm. As one might predict, it meets the bare minimum. The reason for their original breakup would feel more grounded and mature with greater exploration and more subtle storytelling. As it stands, Merv is slight and sweet, hitting every expected note. Crafting a story with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – even if it's not exactly a great one either.

• Merv becomes available on Prime Video starting December 10.