Thu Dec 11 14:10:00 UTC 2025: Summary:

Sheila O’Malley reviews “Merv,” a new film directed by Jessica Swale, about a dog named Merv who becomes depressed after his owners, Anna (Zooey Deschanel) and Russ (Charlie Cox), break up. The movie explores whether they should stay together for the sake of the dog, whom they both love. O’Malley finds the premise cute but the execution lackluster and uninspired. She argues that the film misses opportunities for humor and creativity, particularly when compared to classic films like “The Awful Truth.” She also critiques the lack of chemistry between the lead actors and the failure to establish the bond between their characters. While heartwarming in concept, the film is ultimately deemed lukewarm.

News Article:

“Merv” Fails to Fetch Critical Acclaim: Reviewers Find Dog-Centric Rom-Com Lacking

[City, State] – Jessica Swale’s latest film, “Merv,” starring Zooey Deschanel and Charlie Cox, has received a lukewarm reception from critics. The film centers on a dog, Merv (played by Gus), struggling with his owners’ separation and the shared custody arrangement that follows.

Sheila O’Malley of RogerEbert.com, a noted film critic, describes the premise as “cute” but the overall execution as “lackluster and even obligatory.” In her review, O’Malley expresses disappointment that the film fails to capitalize on its potential for humor and creative storytelling, particularly when considering the rich history of dog-centric romantic comedies like “The Awful Truth.”

O’Malley argues that “Merv” misses opportunities to explore the comedic and dramatic possibilities of the ex-couple’s new dating lives and the jealousies that could arise in both the human and canine characters. The review also criticizes the lack of chemistry between Deschanel and Cox, noting that their characters’ relationship feels more like a “mutual friend-zone” than a genuine romantic connection.

While the film aims to be heartwarming, O’Malley concludes that it ultimately falls short, generating only “lukewarm” emotions. “Merv” is currently available for streaming.

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