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It is a common warning among many that co-parenting a dog post-separation is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such situations hinder ex-partners from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and prove frustrating for all parties. Apparently, and in a twist worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause our furry friends to feel down.

Without minimizing the mental health of dogs – many owners observe their profound sensitivity. To witness a prime example in pet despair, one need only look another performance. It seems certain that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle adapting to life in two homes. If this concept a full holiday film on this conflict works effectively is a questionable prospect.

Predictable Foundations

To its credit, Merv, crafted by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and helmed by director Swale, never aspires to be more profound than its premise. We have here a Christmas movie from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the complexity is limited. Its storyline unfolds as straightforward: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, take a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. There, inevitably, they will presumably stumble toward the idea that they are better together. The supporting cast – featuring familiar faces – serve as the usual assortment of types. Visually carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is visibly contrived – think fake snow surrounding green trees as a summer location doubles as a cold December city.

Where the Film Shines

If these familiar elements coalesce into an entertaining watch depends on the actors' work and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. Regarding the second aspect, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who browse regularly for pet content. Audiences receive a series of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is the dog, and even if it causes some stilted moments between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing dog beach fun, canine sorrow, and, in the end, a tail-wagging resolution.

The Two-Legged Cast

The same praise cannot be applied for the romantic plot. The film's approach vacillates between serious study, wacky comedy, predictable love story, and silly gags, never fully committing to any one mode. This is not Charlie Cox, who is fully game the absurd and awkward inherent in the dog resort scenario. His performance contains a endearing lack of ego that provides the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Her co-star Deschanel, true to her usual style, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will be to your taste or not. Her portrayal comes across as a little too aloof, notably when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, Merv himself succeeds in flopping and whining – while no a canine thespian of that caliber, he remains a scene-stealer.)

Merv tries to add substance to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, since Merv is easily the cutest element of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it just about gets by. The reason for their original breakup could have been more grounded and mature with more screen time and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is slight and sweet, meeting precisely what you anticipate. Creating a movie with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – even if I wouldn't call it a brilliant concept.

• Merv becomes available on Amazon Prime Video on December 10th.