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It is a common warning among many that jointly caring for a pet post-separation is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such setups prevent individuals from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and prove frustrating across the board. Apparently, and in a twist suited to a streaming movie, it also makes the canine in question to become depressed.

Not to downplay the emotional well-being of our pets – many owners speak of their deep emotional capacity. To witness a masterclass in dog sorrow, simply recall a past film. It seems certain that a dog like Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle adjusting to divided living arrangements. If this concept an entire Christmas romance on such a setup holds water seems debatable at best.

Predictable Foundations

Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of its screenwriters and helmed by Jessica Swale, never aspires to be anything more than a light film. We have here a seasonal offering from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth remains surface-level. The narrative unfolds as straightforward: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), forced to acknowledge that their post-breakup gloom is rivaled only by their dog's, take a cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will presumably stumble toward the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – played by a group of comedic actors – serve as the usual assortment of types. Visually is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – exemplified by flurries piled on lush pines as a summer location stands in for a wintery Boston.

The Dog's Domain

Whether these familiar elements merge into an entertaining watch depends on the execution and the viewer's appetite for comfort viewing. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who seek out for pet content. Audiences receive a wealth of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is Merv himself, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie delivers on walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, a tail-wagging resolution.

The Human Element

The same praise does not extend for the interpersonal drama. The tone vacillates between relationship drama, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and silly gags, never fully committing to a consistent feel. The fault lies not with the actor playing Russ, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny inherent in the bizarre setting. Cox exhibits 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 certain millennial quirkiness that will be to your taste or not. Her portrayal seems a little too aloof, especially when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (It should be noted, the canine performer is convincing at acting depressed – he may not be the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he is still a scene-stealer.)

The film attempts to provide depth to the central romance for sequences focusing solely on them – a regrettable choice, given that the title character is undoubtedly the cutest element of this cute-aiming movie. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The reason for their separation could have been more grounded and mature with more screen time and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, hitting precisely what you anticipate. Crafting a story on this shared-custody premise has potential – though it's hardly a brilliant concept.

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