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It is a common warning for numerous people that sharing custody a canine companion following a split is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such setups hinder ex-partners from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, lead to tension, and prove frustrating for everyone involved. As it turns out, as a development suited to a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to our furry friends to experience sadness.

While respecting the inner life of our pets – many owners attest to their profound sensitivity. If you need prime example in canine melancholy, consider a past film. It seems certain that a dog of Merv's nature, a scruffy terrier type played by Gus the Dog, would struggle adapting to split households. Whether this premise a full holiday film around this situation holds water is a questionable prospect.

Standard Holiday Fare

Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by the writing duo and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims more profound than what it is. We have here a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the complexity remains surface-level. The narrative is destined to be straightforward: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their individual funk is matched by their dog's, embark on a therapeutic trip to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will presumably rediscover the idea that they are better together. Side characters – played by familiar faces – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Visually carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is clearly manufactured – as seen in fake snow piled on verdant foliage as a warm climate doubles as a cold December city.

Where the Film Shines

How these standard ingredients come together into something enjoyable hinges on the actors' work and an acceptance of comfort viewing. On the latter point, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who seek out for cute animal clips. Audiences receive a series of canine-centric sequences. The main attraction is the dog, and even if it causes some stilted moments between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, pet moping, and, finally, doggie joy.

The Two-Legged Cast

Such effectiveness cannot be applied for the human side of the story. The tone vacillates between serious study, zany antics, formulaic romance, and silly gags, not quite landing a single genre. This is not Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward inherent in the unusual premise. He brings a endearing lack of ego that supplies much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, as is her trademark, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna can feel a touch too detached, especially when alongside Cox's genuine sadness. (It should be noted, the canine performer succeeds in looking despondent – not quite the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he is still a very good boy.)

The story strives to give weight to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, given that the dog is easily the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. As one might predict, it just about gets by. The reason for their original breakup would feel more nuanced with more screen time and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling every expected note. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting is not terrible – even if I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.

• Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video this December.