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This is an often-repeated piece of advice for numerous people that jointly caring for a canine companion following a split is a recipe for trouble. The consensus suggests such situations prevent individuals from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, fuel disputes, and become annoying for everyone involved. Seemingly, and in a twist fit for a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause the dogs themselves to experience sadness.

Not to downplay the emotional well-being of our pets – many owners observe their remarkable empathy. For a standout portrayal in canine melancholy, one need only look another performance. There is little doubt that a dog like Merv, a scruffy terrier type played by Gus the Dog, would have a hard time coping with life in two homes. If this concept a full holiday film on such a setup works effectively is rather doubtful.

Standard Holiday Fare

Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of its screenwriters and directed by Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims deeper than a light film. It functions as a holiday release from a corporate studio – the depth remains surface-level. The narrative is destined to be uncomplicated: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, embark on a therapeutic trip to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will presumably rediscover the idea that they belong with each other. Ensemble players – played by Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – are crafted as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is visibly contrived – as seen in fake snow piled on verdant foliage as North Carolina substitutes for a cold December city.

The Canine Charisma

If these familiar elements merge into an entertaining watch rests upon the actors' work and one's taste for easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who browse regularly for cute animal clips. Audiences receive a series of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is the dog, and though it results in some awkward editing between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing canine party antics, pet moping, and, ultimately, a tail-wagging resolution.

The Human Element

The same praise does not extend for the romantic plot. Its style wavers between relationship drama, zany antics, formulaic romance, and silly gags, failing to master a consistent feel. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny demanded of the dog resort scenario. He brings a likable self-deprecation that offers a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, as is her trademark, brings a certain millennial quirkiness that will be to your taste or not. Her portrayal can feel a little too aloof, notably when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, Gus the Dog succeeds in flopping and whining – not quite the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he remains an excellent dog.)

The film attempts to add substance to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, considering Merv is undoubtedly the best part of this cute-aiming movie. Unsurprisingly, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for their separation might seem more grounded and mature with more screen time and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is slight and sweet, meeting every expected note. Creating a movie with this canine conflict has potential – though I wouldn't call it a brilliant concept.

• Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video on December 10th.