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It is a common warning for numerous people that sharing custody a pet after a breakup is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such situations hinder former couples from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and become annoying across the board. Seemingly, in a revelation suited to a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause our furry friends to become depressed.

Without minimizing the emotional well-being of animals – pet parents speak of their remarkable empathy. For a masterclass in dog sorrow, consider recent cinema. It seems certain that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would have a hard time coping with split households. If this concept an entire Christmas romance on such a setup holds water seems rather doubtful.

Predictable Foundations

Honestly, Merv, the work of the writing duo and under the guidance of director Swale, never aspires to be anything more than a light film. This is a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the depth is limited. The narrative proves to be straightforward: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their individual funk is matched by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. Once there, as expected, they will surely realize the idea that they belong with each other. Side characters – played by a group of comedic actors – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Visually has the quality of a platform's in-house production, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – exemplified by flurries piled on verdant foliage as a warm climate substitutes for a cold December city.

Where the Film Shines

Whether these predictable parts coalesce into a pleasant experience depends on the actors' work and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who scroll endlessly for pet content. Audiences receive a series of scenes focused on the pet. The primary selling point is Merv himself, and while this leads to some awkward editing between animal action and human reaction, the movie does offer walking sequences, pet moping, and, finally, a tail-wagging resolution.

The Human Element

This level of success is not earned for the interpersonal drama. Its style wavers between emotional depth, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, failing to master a single genre. This is not Cox's performance, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe inherent in the unusual premise. His performance contains a endearing lack of ego that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this on-the-rocks couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, injects a certain millennial quirkiness that will click for some but not others. Her Anna seems a touch too detached, notably when contrasted against Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, Gus the Dog is convincing at looking despondent – he may not be the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he's definitely a scene-stealer.)

The story strives to provide depth to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – which is unfortunate, given that the dog is by far the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for their original breakup could have been more grounded and mature with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, meeting all its marks. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting has potential – but it's hardly a brilliant concept.

• Merv premieres on Prime Video on December 10th.