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This is a common warning for numerous people that jointly caring for a dog post-separation is a terrible idea. Most will argue such arrangements impede former couples from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and are a nuisance for everyone involved. As it turns out, as a development suited to a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to experience sadness.

Not to downplay the inner life of our pets – pet parents speak of their deep emotional capacity. If you need masterclass in dog sorrow, consider another performance. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a spirited little dog brought to life by Gus the Dog, would struggle coping with divided living arrangements. The idea of basing an entire Christmas romance on such a setup works effectively remains a questionable prospect.

Predictable Foundations

Honestly, Merv, crafted by its screenwriters and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, never aspires to be anything more than what it is. We have here a seasonal offering from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth remains surface-level. The plot is destined to be straightforward: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, take a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will surely stumble toward the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – including a group of comedic actors – serve as the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – exemplified by flurries clinging to lush pines as a warm climate doubles as a wintery Boston.

Where the Film Shines

How these familiar elements merge into an entertaining watch rests upon the actors' work and an acceptance of easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv targets a specific viewer – those people who scroll endlessly for cute animal clips. The film delivers a series of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is Merv himself, and though it results in some awkward editing between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing canine party antics, dog depression, and, ultimately, a tail-wagging resolution.

Where It Wobbles

The same praise cannot be applied for the romantic plot. The tone vacillates between relationship drama, broad humor, formulaic romance, and silly gags, failing to master a consistent feel. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny demanded of the bizarre setting. He brings a charming humility that offers a significant portion of the appeal for this on-the-rocks couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, imparts a certain millennial quirkiness that will be to your taste or not. Her portrayal can feel a little too aloof, particularly when contrasted against Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, Merv himself manages flopping and whining – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he's definitely an excellent dog.)

Merv tries to give weight to Anna and Russ's relationship for sequences focusing solely on them – a regrettable choice, given that Merv is by far the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. As one might predict, it meets the bare minimum. The catalyst for their original breakup might seem more adult and realistic with less exposition and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, meeting all its marks. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – but it's not exactly a stroke of genius.

• Merv streams on Amazon Prime Video this December.