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

This is a widely held belief in certain circles that sharing custody a dog following a split is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such setups impede former couples from finding closure, cause practical headaches, spark arguments, and become annoying across the board. As it turns out, as a development worthy of a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to our furry friends to become depressed.

Not to downplay the mental health of animals – countless people speak of their remarkable empathy. For a masterclass in pet despair, simply recall a past film. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a scruffy terrier type portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle adapting to split households. If this concept a full holiday film on this conflict is sustainable remains a questionable prospect.

Predictable Foundations

Honestly, Merv, the work of the writing duo and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than a light film. It functions as a holiday release from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth is limited. The plot is destined to be straightforward: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, decide on a therapeutic trip to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will presumably realize the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – played by a group of comedic actors – serve as the usual assortment of types. Visually carries the feel of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is clearly manufactured – exemplified by flurries piled on green trees as North Carolina doubles as the Northeast.

The Dog's Domain

How these standard ingredients coalesce into an entertaining watch hinges on the strength of the performances and an acceptance of easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – individuals who browse regularly for cute animal clips. It provides a series of scenes focused on the pet. The central draw is the canine star, and even if it causes some stilted moments between the pet's "lines" and people's faces, the movie does offer canine party antics, canine sorrow, and, finally, pure puppy happiness.

Where It Wobbles

This level of success cannot be applied for the romantic plot. Its style shifts uneasily between emotional depth, zany antics, standard rom-com beats, and silly gags, never fully committing to a single genre. This is not Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe required by the dog resort scenario. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that offers a significant portion of the appeal for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, true to her usual style, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal comes across as a touch too detached, especially when alongside Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, Merv himself succeeds in acting depressed – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely an excellent dog.)

The story strives to provide depth to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, considering Merv is easily the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The catalyst for their original breakup could have been more nuanced with less exposition and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is gentle and pleasant, meeting every expected note. Creating a movie with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – though it's hardly a great one either.

• Merv becomes available on the Amazon platform this December.