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This is a common warning for numerous people that co-parenting a dog following a split is a recipe for trouble. The consensus suggests such situations hinder ex-partners from healing, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and are a nuisance for all parties. Apparently, in a revelation worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause the dogs themselves to become depressed.

Not to downplay the mental health of animals – countless people attest to their profound sensitivity. To witness a prime example in canine melancholy, simply recall recent cinema. It seems certain that a dog like Merv, a scruffy terrier type portrayed by the canine actor Gus, would struggle coping with life in two homes. If this concept a full holiday film on such a setup is sustainable remains rather doubtful.

A Familiar Formula

Honestly, Merv, crafted by its screenwriters and directed by playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than what it is. This is a Christmas movie from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth remains surface-level. The narrative is destined to be uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), forced to acknowledge that their own sadness is rivaled only by their dog's, take a cheer-up vacation to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will presumably rediscover the idea that they belong with each other. Ensemble players – including Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. The film's look is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is visibly contrived – as seen in flurries surrounding verdant foliage as North Carolina substitutes for a cold December city.

Where the Film Shines

How these familiar elements merge into a pleasant experience rests upon the strength of the performances and an acceptance of comfort viewing. On the latter point, Merv hones in on a demographic – the kind who seek out for cute animal clips. Audiences receive a wealth of scenes focused on the pet. The central draw is Merv himself, and even if it causes some awkward editing between animal action and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, doggie joy.

The Two-Legged Cast

This level of success cannot be applied for the human side of the story. The film's approach shifts uneasily between relationship drama, zany antics, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, failing to master a single genre. This is not Cox's performance, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe demanded of the unusual premise. He brings a likable self-deprecation that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this on-the-rocks couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will be to your taste or not. Her portrayal can feel a touch too detached, especially when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (For what it's worth, Merv himself succeeds in looking despondent – he may not be Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still a very good boy.)

Merv tries to provide depth to Anna and Russ's relationship for sequences focusing solely on them – a bit of a pity, since the title character is undoubtedly the best part of this cute-aiming movie. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The cause for the split would feel more adult and realistic with greater exploration and more subtle storytelling. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, hitting precisely what you anticipate. Making a film about dog co-parenting has potential – though it's not exactly a brilliant concept.

• Merv becomes available on Prime Video on December 10th.