Merv Review – A Canine Star Commands the Show in Amazon’s By-the-Book Christmas Romcom

It is a widely held belief among many that sharing custody a canine companion following a split is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such situations prevent ex-partners from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, fuel disputes, and become annoying across the board. As it turns out, and in a twist suited to a direct-to-platform film, it also makes our furry friends to become depressed.

Not to downplay the inner life of dogs – countless people attest to their deep emotional capacity. To witness a prime example in pet despair, one need only look another performance. There is little doubt that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog portrayed by Gus the Dog, would find it difficult adjusting to life in two homes. Whether this premise a full holiday film on such a setup holds water remains debatable at best.

Predictable Foundations

Honestly, Merv, the work of Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and directed by director Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than what it is. This is a holiday release from a streaming platform giant – the complexity is limited. The narrative is destined to be uncomplicated: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their individual funk is rivaled only by their dog's, take a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will surely stumble toward the idea that they belong with each other. Ensemble players – including a group of comedic actors – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is obviously artificial – exemplified by flurries surrounding verdant foliage as a warm climate substitutes for a cold December city.

The Dog's Domain

How these familiar elements come together into something enjoyable depends on the actors' work and one's taste for easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who seek out for dog videos. The film delivers a wealth of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is Merv himself, and even if it causes some stilted moments between animal action and the actors' responses, the movie succeeds in showing dog beach fun, canine sorrow, and, finally, doggie joy.

Where It Wobbles

The same praise is not earned for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach shifts uneasily between relationship drama, zany antics, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, never fully committing to any one mode. The fault lies not with Charlie Cox, who is fully game the humiliating and funny demanded of the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a likable self-deprecation that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, true to her usual style, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will click for some but not others. The character seems a touch too detached, notably when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, Gus the Dog is convincing at looking despondent – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely a scene-stealer.)

The story strives to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – which is unfortunate, since the dog is by far the best part of this cute-aiming movie. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for the split might seem more grounded and mature with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. In the end, Merv is light and sugary, meeting every expected note. Making a film about dog co-parenting has potential – but it's not exactly a brilliant concept.

• Merv streams on Amazon Prime Video this December.