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This is a widely held belief for numerous people that jointly caring for a dog post-separation is a terrible idea. Most will argue such arrangements prevent former couples from moving forward, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance for all parties. Seemingly, in a revelation worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause our furry friends to become depressed.

While respecting the emotional well-being of animals – many owners speak of their remarkable empathy. To witness a standout portrayal in dog sorrow, simply recall recent cinema. There is little doubt that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog portrayed by Gus the Dog, would have a hard time adjusting to split households. The idea of basing a feature-length romcom on this conflict is sustainable is rather doubtful.

A Familiar Formula

Honestly, Merv, crafted by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than its premise. We have here a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the complexity remains surface-level. The plot is destined to be uncomplicated: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, take a cheer-up vacation to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will surely realize the idea that they should reunite. Ensemble players – played by familiar faces – fulfill roles eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Its aesthetic has the quality of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is visibly contrived – as seen in fake snow clinging to green trees as a summer location doubles as a cold December city.

The Canine Charisma

How these standard ingredients come together into an entertaining watch hinges on the actors' work and an acceptance of comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who seek out for dog videos. Audiences receive a series of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is Merv himself, and even if it causes some awkward editing between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie delivers on walking sequences, dog depression, and, finally, pure puppy happiness.

The Two-Legged Cast

This level of success is not earned for the romantic plot. The film's approach vacillates between relationship drama, broad humor, predictable love story, and physical comedy, not quite landing a consistent feel. This is not Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe required by the unusual premise. He brings a endearing lack of ego that offers a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal seems a little too aloof, especially when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (For what it's worth, the canine performer manages looking despondent – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely a very good boy.)

The film attempts to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for sequences focusing solely on them – a bit of a pity, considering the dog is undoubtedly the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it meets the bare minimum. The reason for the split could have been more adult and realistic with less exposition and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is slight and sweet, hitting all its marks. Making a film with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – though it's hardly a great one either.

• Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.