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It is a common warning in certain circles that jointly caring for a dog post-separation is a recipe for trouble. The consensus suggests such situations hinder ex-partners from moving forward, lead to scheduling chaos, lead to tension, and become annoying for everyone involved. As it turns out, in a revelation suited to a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to experience sadness.

Not to downplay the mental health of dogs – pet parents observe their remarkable empathy. For a standout portrayal in pet despair, consider recent cinema. I firmly believe that a dog like Merv, a scruffy terrier type brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult adapting to split households. If this concept a feature-length romcom on such a setup is sustainable is a questionable prospect.

Predictable Foundations

To its credit, Merv, crafted by the writing duo and directed by director Swale, makes no grand claims deeper than what it is. It functions as a seasonal offering from a corporate studio – the depth remains surface-level. Its storyline is destined to be straightforward: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their individual funk is rivaled only by their dog's, decide on a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. There, inevitably, they will presumably rediscover the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – including familiar faces – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a platform's in-house production, with a wintry atmosphere that is obviously artificial – think obvious snow effects clinging to lush pines as a summer location stands in for a wintery Boston.

Where the Film Shines

How these predictable parts coalesce into an entertaining watch hinges on the execution and an acceptance of comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – individuals who scroll endlessly for cute animal clips. The film delivers a plethora of canine-centric sequences. The central draw is Merv himself, and while this leads to some awkward editing between animal action and the actors' responses, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, dog depression, and, in the end, doggie joy.

The Human Element

This level of success does not extend for the interpersonal drama. Its style vacillates between relationship drama, zany antics, formulaic romance, and outright slapstick, failing to master a single genre. The fault lies not with Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the absurd and awkward required by the unusual premise. His performance contains a likable self-deprecation that supplies much of the film's charm for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, imparts a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal can feel a little too aloof, particularly when contrasted against Cox's vulnerable performance. (For what it's worth, the canine performer succeeds in looking despondent – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he is still a scene-stealer.)

Merv tries to add substance to the couple's history for sequences focusing solely on them – which is unfortunate, considering the title character is undoubtedly the best part of this cute-aiming movie. As one might predict, it just about gets by. The reason for their original breakup might seem more adult and realistic with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. In the end, Merv is light and sugary, hitting every expected note. Making a film with this canine conflict has potential – even if it's not exactly a stroke of genius.

• Merv premieres on the Amazon platform this December.