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This is a widely held belief for numerous people that jointly caring for a dog following a split is ill-advised. Most will argue such setups prevent ex-partners from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, lead to tension, and become annoying for everyone involved. Seemingly, in a revelation suited to a streaming movie, it also makes the canine in question to feel down.

Without minimizing the mental health of dogs – countless people observe their profound sensitivity. To witness a masterclass in canine melancholy, simply recall a past film. It seems certain that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog played by Gus the Dog, would have a hard time adapting to split households. Whether this premise a full holiday film around this situation works effectively remains a questionable prospect.

Predictable Foundations

Honestly, Merv, the work of the writing duo and directed by director Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than its premise. This is a holiday release from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the complexity is limited. The narrative is destined to be uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their own sadness is rivaled only by their dog's, take a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. There, inevitably, they will presumably stumble toward the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – played by a group of comedic actors – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. The film's look has the quality of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – exemplified by obvious snow effects surrounding green trees as a summer location substitutes for a cold December city.

Where the Film Shines

Whether these familiar elements coalesce into something enjoyable hinges on the execution and an acceptance of comfort viewing. For the comfort factor, Merv knows its audience – individuals who seek out for dog videos. The film delivers a series of canine-centric sequences. The main attraction is the canine star, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and people's faces, the movie does offer dog beach fun, canine sorrow, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.

The Human Element

This level of success is not earned for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach wavers between serious study, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and silly gags, never fully committing to any one mode. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny required by the bizarre setting. He brings a likable self-deprecation that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, as is her trademark, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will click for some but not others. The character can feel a little too aloof, notably when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, the canine performer succeeds in looking despondent – not quite 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 – a regrettable choice, considering the dog is by far the cutest element of this cute-aiming movie. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for the split would feel more adult and realistic with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, meeting every expected note. Making a film on this shared-custody premise has potential – even if I wouldn't call it a brilliant concept.

• Merv streams on the Amazon platform this December.