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This is a common warning among many that jointly caring for a dog post-separation is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such arrangements hinder individuals from moving forward, cause practical headaches, lead to tension, and are a nuisance across the board. As it turns out, in a revelation fit for a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to our furry friends to feel down.

Not to downplay the mental health of our pets – countless people observe their profound sensitivity. For a prime example in dog sorrow, simply recall another performance. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix portrayed by the canine actor Gus, would have a hard time adapting to divided living arrangements. If this concept a feature-length romcom on this conflict works effectively is debatable at best.

A Familiar Formula

Honestly, Merv, the work of the writing duo and under the guidance of director Swale, never aspires to be more profound than its premise. It functions as a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the ambitions are modest. The narrative is destined to be straightforward: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), forced to acknowledge that their own sadness is rivaled only by their dog's, embark on a cheer-up vacation to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will undoubtedly stumble toward the idea that they should reunite. Ensemble players – played by familiar faces – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. The film's look carries the feel of a platform's in-house production, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – as seen in obvious snow effects surrounding green trees as a warm climate doubles as a wintery Boston.

The Canine Charisma

Whether these standard ingredients come together into something enjoyable hinges on the execution and the viewer's appetite for cinematic comfort food. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – the kind who seek out for pet content. The film delivers a wealth of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is Merv himself, and though it results in some awkward editing between animal action and human reaction, the movie does offer canine party antics, canine sorrow, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.

The Two-Legged Cast

Such effectiveness does not extend for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach shifts uneasily between emotional depth, zany antics, predictable love story, and physical comedy, never fully committing to a single genre. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is fully game the humiliating and funny demanded of the unusual premise. He brings a likable self-deprecation that supplies much of the film's charm for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. The character can feel a bit too dry, especially when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, Gus the Dog manages looking despondent – he may not be the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he is still an excellent dog.)

Merv tries to add substance to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – which is unfortunate, given that the dog is by far the best part of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it just about gets by. The catalyst for their original breakup might seem more adult and realistic with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling every expected note. Making a film about dog co-parenting has potential – though it's hardly a brilliant concept.

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