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It is a widely held belief among many that co-parenting a dog following a split is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such setups prevent former couples from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and become annoying for all parties. As it turns out, in a revelation worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it also makes our furry friends to experience sadness.

Without minimizing the mental health of animals – pet parents speak of their deep emotional capacity. For a masterclass in dog sorrow, simply recall a past film. It seems certain that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog played by the canine actor Gus, would struggle adapting to divided living arrangements. If this concept a feature-length romcom on this conflict holds water seems a questionable prospect.

Predictable Foundations

Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and helmed by Jessica Swale, never aspires to be anything more than what it is. We have here a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the complexity is limited. The plot is destined to be uncomplicated: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their individual funk is surpassed by their dog's, take a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will presumably stumble toward the idea that they are better together. Side characters – played by familiar faces – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic has the quality of a platform's in-house production, with a holiday backdrop that is obviously artificial – exemplified by obvious snow effects clinging to lush pines as a warm climate substitutes for a wintery Boston.

Where the Film Shines

How these familiar elements merge into an entertaining watch hinges on the actors' work and one's taste for easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – individuals who browse regularly for dog videos. The film delivers a plethora of adorable dog montages. The central draw is the dog, and even if it causes some awkward editing between the pet's "lines" and the actors' responses, the movie does offer canine party antics, dog depression, and, in the end, doggie joy.

Where It Wobbles

This level of success cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. Its style vacillates between serious study, zany antics, predictable love story, and silly gags, never fully committing to a single genre. The fault lies not with the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe demanded of the bizarre setting. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this on-the-rocks couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, injects a distinctive offbeat energy that will click for some but not others. Her Anna seems a little too aloof, particularly when contrasted against Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, Gus the Dog is convincing at flopping and whining – while no the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he is still a scene-stealer.)

The film attempts to provide depth to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – which is unfortunate, since the title character is by far the cutest element of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for their separation would feel more adult and realistic with more screen time and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is gentle and pleasant, meeting all its marks. Creating a movie with this canine conflict is not terrible – though it's not exactly a great one either.

• Merv streams on Amazon Prime Video on December 10th.