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It is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that jointly caring for a dog following a split is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such arrangements prevent ex-partners from moving forward, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance across the board. Seemingly, as a development suited to a streaming movie, it also makes our furry friends to experience sadness.

While respecting the mental health of dogs – countless people attest to their profound sensitivity. For a prime example in dog sorrow, consider another performance. I firmly believe that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type brought to life by the canine actor Gus, would find it difficult adjusting to divided living arrangements. If this concept a feature-length romcom on this conflict works effectively remains rather doubtful.

A Familiar Formula

Honestly, Merv, the work of the writing duo and under the guidance of director Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than its premise. It functions as a holiday release from a corporate studio – the depth are modest. The plot is destined to be uncomplicated: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their individual funk is matched by their dog's, embark on a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will surely rediscover the idea that they should reunite. Side characters – including familiar faces – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. Visually carries the feel of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – as seen in flurries surrounding green trees as North Carolina substitutes for a cold December city.

Where the Film Shines

How these familiar elements come together into an entertaining watch depends on the actors' work and one's taste for comfort viewing. For the comfort factor, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who scroll endlessly for cute animal clips. The film delivers a wealth of scenes focused on the pet. The primary selling point is Merv himself, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and the actors' responses, the movie succeeds in showing dog beach fun, dog depression, and, ultimately, pure puppy happiness.

The Human Element

The same praise cannot be applied for the romantic plot. The tone wavers between emotional depth, broad humor, predictable love story, and physical comedy, failing to master a consistent feel. This is not Cox's performance, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny inherent in the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a likable self-deprecation that provides the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. The character can feel a bit too dry, notably when alongside Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, the canine performer succeeds in acting depressed – while no the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he's definitely an excellent dog.)

The story strives to provide depth to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – which is unfortunate, since the title character is easily the best part of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for their original breakup might seem more nuanced with greater exploration and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling all its marks. Crafting a story on this shared-custody premise is not terrible – but it's not exactly a stroke of genius.

• Merv streams on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.