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This is a common warning in certain circles that jointly caring for a dog after a breakup is a terrible idea. Most will argue such situations impede ex-partners from moving forward, cause practical headaches, lead to tension, and become annoying for everyone involved. Seemingly, in a revelation worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to become depressed.

While respecting the emotional well-being of our pets – countless people observe their remarkable empathy. If you need masterclass in canine melancholy, consider another performance. There is little doubt that a dog of Merv's nature, a scruffy terrier type played by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle adapting to divided living arrangements. The idea of basing an entire Christmas romance around this situation is sustainable remains rather doubtful.

Standard Holiday Fare

Honestly, Merv, written by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and directed by Jessica Swale, never aspires to be anything more than a light film. It functions as a holiday release from a streaming platform giant – the depth is limited. Its storyline unfolds as uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, take a cheer-up vacation to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will undoubtedly realize the idea that they should reunite. Side characters – featuring Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – fulfill roles quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a platform's in-house production, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – exemplified by flurries piled on verdant foliage as a summer location substitutes for a cold December city.

Where the Film Shines

How these predictable parts coalesce into a pleasant experience hinges on the actors' work and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv targets a specific viewer – those people who seek out for pet content. The film delivers a series of scenes focused on the pet. The central draw is the canine star, and while this leads to some awkward editing between animal action and people's faces, the movie does offer walking sequences, pet moping, and, finally, doggie joy.

The Human Element

This level of success is not earned for the human side of the story. Its style wavers between relationship drama, broad humor, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, failing to master a consistent feel. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the absurd and awkward required by the dog resort scenario. He brings a charming humility that supplies the bulk of the chemistry for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will be to your taste or not. Her portrayal comes across as a little too aloof, particularly when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (For what it's worth, Gus the Dog manages flopping and whining – he may not be the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he's definitely an excellent dog.)

Merv tries to provide depth to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, given that Merv is by far the best part of this cute-aiming movie. Unsurprisingly, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for the split could have been more grounded and mature with less exposition and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is gentle and pleasant, meeting precisely what you anticipate. Making a film about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – though I wouldn't call it a brilliant concept.

• Merv premieres on Prime Video starting December 10.