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This is a widely held belief for numerous people that co-parenting a pet following a split is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such setups hinder ex-partners from moving forward, lead to scheduling chaos, lead to tension, and become annoying for everyone involved. Seemingly, and in a twist fit for a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to become depressed.

While respecting the emotional well-being of our pets – pet parents attest to their deep emotional capacity. For a masterclass in dog sorrow, one need only look recent cinema. There is little doubt that a dog of Merv's nature, a scruffy terrier type portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult coping with life in two homes. Whether this premise an entire Christmas romance on such a setup works effectively remains rather doubtful.

A Familiar Formula

Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and helmed by director Swale, makes no grand claims anything more than what it is. We have here a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the depth is limited. Its storyline proves to be uncomplicated: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their individual funk is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will undoubtedly stumble toward the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – including familiar faces – serve as quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. Visually carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – as seen in fake snow piled on green trees as a warm climate stands in for a cold December city.

Where the Film Shines

Whether these predictable parts come together into an entertaining watch rests upon the actors' work and the viewer's appetite for easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who browse regularly for pet content. It provides a series of canine-centric sequences. The central draw is the dog, and even if it causes some stilted moments between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie does offer canine party antics, pet moping, and, in the end, doggie joy.

Where It Wobbles

Such effectiveness cannot be applied for the human side of the story. The film's approach vacillates between serious study, wacky comedy, predictable love story, and silly gags, not quite landing any one mode. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe demanded of the dog resort scenario. He brings a endearing lack of ego that offers a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, as is her trademark, injects a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. The character seems a touch too detached, particularly when alongside Cox's genuine sadness. (On another note, the canine performer succeeds in looking despondent – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains an excellent dog.)

The story strives to provide depth to the central romance for sequences focusing solely on them – a regrettable choice, given that the title character is by far the cutest element of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The cause for the split could have been more nuanced with less exposition and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, hitting every expected note. Creating a movie with this canine conflict is not terrible – though it's hardly a great one either.

• Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.