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This is a widely held belief for numerous people that jointly caring for a dog following a split is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such situations prevent ex-partners from healing, cause practical headaches, lead to tension, and are a nuisance for all parties. Apparently, in a revelation fit for a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause the canine in question to become depressed.

Not to downplay the inner life of dogs – pet parents speak of their remarkable empathy. If you need masterclass in canine melancholy, consider another performance. There is little doubt that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog portrayed by the canine actor Gus, would find it difficult coping with life in two homes. Whether this premise a full holiday film on such a setup is sustainable seems debatable at best.

A Familiar Formula

Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by the writing duo and directed by Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims deeper than what it is. It functions as a holiday release from a corporate studio – the depth remains surface-level. The plot unfolds as straightforward: exes 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 cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. There, inevitably, they will undoubtedly rediscover the idea that they belong with each other. Side characters – including a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. Visually is reminiscent of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is clearly manufactured – think flurries clinging to lush pines as a summer location substitutes for a cold December city.

Where the Film Shines

Whether these standard ingredients coalesce into an entertaining watch hinges on the actors' work and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv hones in on a demographic – the kind who seek out for dog videos. The film delivers a series of canine-centric sequences. The primary selling point is the canine star, and even if it causes some stilted moments between what the dog does and the actors' responses, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, pet moping, and, ultimately, doggie joy.

Where It Wobbles

Such effectiveness is not earned for the romantic plot. The film's approach wavers between relationship drama, zany antics, formulaic romance, and outright slapstick, failing to master any one mode. This is not Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny inherent in the dog resort scenario. His performance contains a likable self-deprecation that supplies the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Her co-star Deschanel, as is her trademark, injects a certain millennial quirkiness that will click for some but not others. Her Anna comes across as a bit too dry, particularly when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, Gus the Dog manages looking despondent – he may not be a canine thespian of that caliber, he's definitely a scene-stealer.)

Merv tries to add substance to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, since the title character is undoubtedly the cutest element of this film designed for charm. As one might predict, it meets the bare minimum. The reason for the split could have been more grounded and mature with more screen time and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling all its marks. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting has potential – but it's hardly a great one either.

• Merv premieres on the Amazon platform starting December 10.