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This is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that co-parenting a pet after a breakup is a recipe for trouble. The consensus suggests such setups impede former couples from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and become annoying for all parties. Seemingly, as a development worthy of a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to the canine in question to become depressed.

Not to downplay the emotional well-being of animals – countless people speak of their remarkable empathy. To witness a masterclass in dog sorrow, simply recall a past film. There is little doubt that a dog of Merv's nature, a scruffy terrier type played by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult adjusting to life in two homes. If this concept a feature-length romcom on this conflict is sustainable remains a questionable prospect.

Standard Holiday Fare

Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by the writing duo and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, never aspires to be deeper than a light film. This is a Christmas movie from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the ambitions remains surface-level. The plot is destined to be straightforward: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a canine-centric retreat. Once there, as expected, they will undoubtedly realize 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. The film's look has the quality of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – think fake snow clinging to verdant foliage as North Carolina substitutes for a cold December city.

Where the Film Shines

Whether these predictable parts merge into something enjoyable hinges on the execution and the viewer's appetite for comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who browse regularly for pet content. It provides a plethora of adorable dog montages. The central draw is the dog, and though it results in some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie does offer walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, a tail-wagging resolution.

Where It Wobbles

The same praise does not extend for the human side of the story. The film's approach shifts uneasily between serious study, wacky comedy, predictable love story, and silly gags, never fully committing to a consistent feel. This is not Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny inherent in the dog resort scenario. His performance contains a likable self-deprecation that supplies much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will click for some but not others. Her Anna can feel a bit too dry, notably when contrasted against Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, the canine performer succeeds in flopping and whining – he may not be Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains an excellent dog.)

Merv tries to add substance 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 feel-good picture. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The cause for their separation could have been more nuanced with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, meeting precisely what you anticipate. Crafting a story with this canine conflict is not terrible – but it's hardly a brilliant concept.

• Merv streams on the Amazon platform starting December 10.