“Merv” follows Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), two doting dog co-parents and soulmates who’ve recently parted ways. They’re on a mission to spark joie de vivre anew for their beloved pet and the titular character of this Christmas offering (played by a terrier named Gus). An impromptu seaside vacation to Florida to provide literal and metaphorical warmth—as well as a low-stress environment for their depressed dog to recuperate—results in the unexpected. The former couple re-examines their mistakes, the cracks in their relationship, and the root cause of their break-up.
From the first look, I expected “Merv” to be an extra corny and cheesy movie (although it isn’t lacking in those elements either), however, this simple ‘tail’ of a dog’s seasonal depression eventually snowballs into complex territory. Despite a simple premise, the film touches upon how ‘ruff’ (rough) it is to leave behind not only a shared pet but also cherished moments that are well-preserved. With old Facebook posts resurfacing and nosy acquaintances and relatives shaming Anna for her spinster status during the happiest time of year, the melancholia and pain only intensifies. Even Merv’s missing woollen bootie symbolises a larger loss and sense of incompleteness in the life that Russ and Anna shared together.
A Breakup Through a Dog’s Eyes
The movie also features a unique depiction of seasonal depression and separation via a dog’s lens. It includes instances of Merv still perking up out of habit whenever he hears Anna utter her ex’s name. He also whines when Russ drops him off at her place, vehemently protesting and grieving his owners’ decision to live separately. While the older generation, such as Russ’ mother, MJ (Patricia Heaton) dismiss signs of depression and distress, animals are more prone to sensing tensions. The resulting estranged couple’s arguments and constant blame games stress the poor dog out further. It also equates how a dog’s emotions might spill over or indirectly or be shared by the owners, with Russ feeling threatened or acting possessive of Anna, as if he’s ‘marking his territory’/’asserting dominance.’ It’s a trait that only highlights the messy aftermath of a break-up sans closure.
While far from a typical rom-com, especially crossing into dramedy territory in its climax, Anna’s obsession with superfoods and Russ’s annoyance over the same, and visual gags of chihuahuas riding in mini Jeeps around a special dog beach elicited a chuckle from me. An unexpected Daredevil reference when Russ visits the eye doctor, and a subplot featuring a dog healer/psychic, are mildly amusing.
Cox and Deschanel Make a Good Pair
Charlie Cox and co-star Zooey Deschanel prove to be perkier than their canine co-star and lend sincerity to even the most cliched scenarios in the movie. They complement each other well, and a salsa dance routine with a hint of “Dirty Dancing” in the latter half elevates this wholesome chemistry. The duo, particularly the doe-eyed Deschanel who is frequently typecast as whimsical characters, simultaneously display an ability to dial back on the quirkiness in scenes that are emotionally intense in nature.
For those who crave emotional support or a reason to stay motivated in the face of personal challenges during the holiday season, “Merv” manages to be a perfect (albeit slightly bittersweet) superfood supplement. It’s also pet-friendly (i.e. the dog is saved).
“Merv” is currently streaming on Amazon Prime.
