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This is a common warning in certain circles that jointly caring for a dog post-separation is ill-advised. The consensus suggests such setups impede former couples from healing, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and become annoying for all parties. Apparently, as a development fit for a streaming movie, it also makes the canine in question to feel down.

Not to downplay the mental health of animals – pet parents speak of their profound sensitivity. To witness a standout portrayal in pet despair, simply recall recent cinema. There is little doubt that a dog of Merv's nature, a scruffy terrier type portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle coping with life in two homes. Whether this premise a full holiday film on such a setup holds water is a questionable prospect.

A Familiar Formula

To its credit, Merv, written by its screenwriters and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims deeper than what it is. It functions as a Christmas movie from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the ambitions remains surface-level. The narrative proves to be straightforward: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their own sadness is matched by their dog's, take a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. There, inevitably, they will undoubtedly stumble toward the idea that they belong with each other. Side characters – featuring familiar faces – serve as quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. The film's look has the quality of a streaming service original, with a holiday backdrop that is visibly contrived – exemplified by obvious snow effects piled on verdant foliage as North Carolina stands in for a wintery Boston.

Where the Film Shines

Whether these familiar elements come together into an entertaining watch hinges on the actors' work and one's taste for cinematic comfort food. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – the kind who browse regularly for cute animal clips. It provides a series of canine-centric sequences. The primary selling point is Merv himself, and though it results in some awkward editing between animal action and people's faces, the movie succeeds in showing canine party antics, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, a tail-wagging resolution.

The Human Element

This level of success does not extend for the romantic plot. Its style shifts uneasily between serious study, zany antics, standard rom-com beats, and outright slapstick, never fully committing to a single genre. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny required by the unusual premise. His performance contains a endearing lack of ego that supplies the bulk of the chemistry for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna seems a bit too dry, particularly when paired with Cox's genuine sadness. (On another note, Gus the Dog is convincing at looking despondent – not quite Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains an excellent dog.)

The story strives to add substance to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, given that the dog is by far the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. Expectedly, it meets the bare minimum. The cause for the split would feel more adult and realistic with less exposition and fewer direct statements. In the end, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling every expected note. Making a film about dog co-parenting has potential – even if it's hardly a great one either.

• Merv premieres on the Amazon platform this December.