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It is a common warning in certain circles that jointly caring for a dog following a split is a terrible idea. Most will argue such setups hinder ex-partners from healing, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance across the board. Apparently, as a development fit for a direct-to-platform film, it also makes our furry friends to become depressed.

Without minimizing the emotional well-being of dogs – many owners observe their profound sensitivity. To witness a masterclass in canine melancholy, simply recall recent cinema. There is little doubt that a dog of Merv's nature, a scruffy terrier type brought to life by Gus the Dog, would have a hard time coping with divided living arrangements. The idea of basing a full holiday film on such a setup is sustainable seems a questionable prospect.

A Familiar Formula

Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of the writing duo and helmed by director Swale, never aspires to be deeper than a light film. It functions as a seasonal offering from a corporate studio – the ambitions remains surface-level. Its storyline unfolds as straightforward: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their post-breakup gloom is rivaled only by their dog's, embark on a cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will presumably stumble toward the idea that they should reunite. Side characters – including a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. Visually is reminiscent of a platform's in-house production, with a wintry atmosphere that is obviously artificial – as seen in fake snow surrounding green trees as North Carolina stands in for a cold December city.

Where the Film Shines

Whether these predictable parts come together into a pleasant experience hinges on the actors' work and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. Regarding the second aspect, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who browse regularly for dog videos. It provides a plethora of canine-centric sequences. The central draw is the canine star, and though it results in some awkward editing between what the dog does and people's faces, the movie delivers on dog beach fun, canine sorrow, and, in the end, doggie joy.

The Human Element

Such effectiveness is not earned for the romantic plot. Its style shifts uneasily between relationship drama, broad humor, predictable love story, and outright slapstick, never fully committing to a consistent feel. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe inherent in the bizarre setting. He brings a endearing lack of ego that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, true to her usual style, imparts a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal comes across as a little too aloof, particularly when paired with Cox's genuine sadness. (On another note, the canine performer is convincing at looking despondent – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he's definitely an excellent dog.)

The story strives to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – which is unfortunate, given that the dog is easily the cutest element of this feel-good picture. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The cause for their separation might seem more nuanced with more screen time and fewer direct statements. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling every expected note. Making a film on this shared-custody premise isn't a bad idea – though it's hardly a brilliant concept.

• Merv streams on the Amazon platform this December.