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This is a common warning for numerous people that co-parenting a canine companion following a split is ill-advised. Most will argue such situations hinder individuals from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and become annoying for everyone involved. As it turns out, as a development worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause the dogs themselves to become depressed.

Without minimizing the inner life of animals – countless people observe their profound sensitivity. If you need prime example in dog sorrow, consider another performance. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a scruffy terrier type portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle adjusting to life in two homes. The idea of basing a feature-length romcom around this situation works effectively seems rather doubtful.

Standard Holiday Fare

Honestly, Merv, crafted by the writing duo and directed by director Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than its premise. It functions as a holiday release from a streaming platform giant – the complexity are modest. The narrative proves to be uncomplicated: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, take a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will presumably stumble toward the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – including a group of comedic actors – 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 – think fake snow surrounding green trees as a warm climate doubles as the Northeast.

Where the Film Shines

How these familiar elements coalesce into something enjoyable depends on the execution and one's taste for comfort viewing. On the latter point, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who scroll endlessly for dog videos. The film delivers a wealth of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is the dog, and even if it causes some stilted moments between the pet's "lines" and people's faces, the movie does offer walking sequences, dog depression, and, finally, a tail-wagging resolution.

The Two-Legged Cast

The same praise cannot be applied for the human side of the story. The tone vacillates between serious study, wacky comedy, formulaic romance, and silly gags, never fully committing to a single genre. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is fully game the absurd and awkward inherent in the dog resort scenario. His performance contains a endearing lack of ego that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Her co-star Deschanel, true to her usual style, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal seems a touch too detached, notably when alongside Cox's genuine sadness. (On another note, Gus the Dog manages looking despondent – he may not be the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he remains a scene-stealer.)

Merv tries to add substance to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, since the title character is by far the best part of this cute-aiming movie. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The reason for their original breakup might seem more grounded and mature with more screen time and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, meeting all its marks. Crafting a story on this shared-custody premise is not terrible – but I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.

• Merv premieres on the Amazon platform on December 10th.