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It is a widely held belief among many that co-parenting a dog following a split is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such setups prevent individuals from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and prove frustrating for everyone involved. Apparently, and in a twist worthy of a streaming movie, it can even cause the canine in question to feel down.

Not to downplay the inner life of animals – many owners attest to their remarkable empathy. If you need masterclass in pet despair, simply recall recent cinema. It seems certain that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult adapting to divided living arrangements. The idea of basing a full holiday film around this situation holds water is a questionable prospect.

A Familiar Formula

Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by the writing duo and helmed by Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than a light film. It functions as a seasonal offering from a corporate studio – the complexity are modest. The narrative proves to be simple and direct: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will undoubtedly stumble toward the idea that they belong with each other. Ensemble players – including Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. The film's look is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a holiday backdrop that is visibly contrived – as seen in obvious snow effects surrounding lush pines as a warm climate doubles as a cold December city.

The Dog's Domain

If these predictable parts merge into something enjoyable depends on the strength of the performances and one's taste for easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv targets a specific viewer – those people who seek out for dog videos. The film delivers a series of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is Merv himself, and though it results in some clunky cuts between animal action and human reaction, the movie delivers on canine party antics, pet moping, and, ultimately, doggie joy.

Where It Wobbles

This level of success is not earned for the human side of the story. The tone vacillates between relationship drama, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and silly gags, never fully committing to any one mode. This is not Cox's performance, who is fully game the humiliating and funny inherent in the unusual premise. His performance contains a charming humility that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, true to her usual style, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal comes across as a little too aloof, especially when paired with Cox's genuine sadness. (It should be noted, the canine performer is convincing at flopping and whining – while no a canine thespian of that caliber, he's definitely a scene-stealer.)

The film attempts to give weight to the central romance for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, given that Merv is easily the cutest element of this feel-good picture. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The cause for their original breakup could have been more adult and realistic with more screen time and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling every expected note. Creating a movie with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – but it's hardly a brilliant concept.

• Merv streams on Prime Video this December.