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It is an often-repeated piece of advice among many that co-parenting a pet after a breakup is ill-advised. The consensus suggests such arrangements prevent individuals from moving forward, cause practical headaches, lead to tension, and become annoying for everyone involved. As it turns out, as a development worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the canine in question to become depressed.

While respecting the emotional well-being of our pets – countless people attest to their profound sensitivity. For a standout portrayal in dog sorrow, simply recall another performance. I firmly believe that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type played by the canine actor Gus, would struggle adapting to split households. The idea of basing an entire Christmas romance around this situation holds water is a questionable prospect.

Predictable Foundations

Honestly, Merv, written by the writing duo and helmed by Jessica Swale, never aspires to be more profound than what it is. We have here a holiday release from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth is limited. Its storyline unfolds as straightforward: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, embark on a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. There, inevitably, they will undoubtedly rediscover the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – played by a group of comedic actors – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Visually has the quality of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – as seen in obvious snow effects piled on green trees as North Carolina doubles as the Northeast.

The Canine Charisma

If these standard ingredients coalesce into an entertaining watch rests upon the strength of the performances and the viewer's appetite for cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who browse regularly for pet content. It provides a plethora of canine-centric sequences. The central draw is the dog, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie does offer canine party antics, dog depression, and, ultimately, pure puppy happiness.

Where It Wobbles

This level of success is not earned for the human side of the story. Its style vacillates between relationship drama, broad humor, predictable love story, and physical comedy, not quite landing a single genre. This is not Charlie Cox, who is fully game the silliness and cringe inherent in the dog resort scenario. He brings a charming humility that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this ostensibly perfect couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna comes across as a little too aloof, especially when alongside Cox's genuine sadness. (It should be noted, Merv himself succeeds in acting depressed – not quite Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still an excellent dog.)

The film attempts to add substance to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, considering Merv is by far the best part of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for their separation might seem more adult and realistic with less exposition and fewer direct statements. In the end, Merv is slight and sweet, hitting precisely what you anticipate. Making a film about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – though I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.

• Merv streams on Prime Video starting December 10.