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It is an often-repeated piece of advice among many that jointly caring for a dog following a split is a terrible idea. Most will argue such situations impede individuals from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, fuel disputes, and become annoying across the board. Apparently, as a development fit for a streaming movie, it also makes the dogs themselves to experience sadness.

While respecting the inner life of our pets – many owners observe their deep emotional capacity. To witness a standout portrayal in pet despair, simply recall a past film. It seems certain that a dog like Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix played by Gus the Dog, would have a hard time coping with life in two homes. The idea of basing a feature-length romcom around this situation works effectively seems rather doubtful.

Predictable Foundations

Honestly, Merv, the work of its screenwriters and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than a light film. It functions as a holiday release from a corporate studio – the depth remains surface-level. The narrative is destined to be straightforward: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their own sadness is matched by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. There, inevitably, they will presumably rediscover the idea that they should reunite. Side characters – played by familiar faces – fulfill roles eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. The film's look is reminiscent of a platform's in-house production, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – as seen in obvious snow effects piled on lush pines as a summer location substitutes for the Northeast.

Where the Film Shines

If these familiar elements merge into an entertaining watch rests upon the strength of the performances and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv knows its audience – the kind who scroll endlessly for pet content. The film delivers a wealth of adorable dog montages. The central draw is the canine star, and though it results in some awkward editing between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie delivers on canine party antics, dog depression, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.

Where It Wobbles

The same praise cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach shifts uneasily between emotional depth, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, failing to master any one mode. The fault lies not with Cox's performance, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward inherent in the unusual premise. His performance contains a likable self-deprecation that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, imparts a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. The character comes across as a touch too detached, notably when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (For what it's worth, Gus the Dog is convincing at acting depressed – not quite Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely a scene-stealer.)

Merv tries to give weight to Anna and Russ's relationship for sequences focusing solely on them – which is unfortunate, considering the dog is undoubtedly the best part of this feel-good picture. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for their original breakup would feel more adult and realistic with more screen time and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is slight and sweet, hitting precisely what you anticipate. Making a film on this shared-custody premise is not terrible – even if it's not exactly a brilliant concept.

• Merv premieres on Prime Video on December 10th.