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This is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that jointly caring for a dog post-separation is a recipe for trouble. The consensus suggests such situations prevent individuals from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and become annoying for all parties. Apparently, in a revelation worthy of a streaming movie, it can even cause the dogs themselves to experience sadness.

Not to downplay the mental health of dogs – many owners observe their profound sensitivity. To witness a masterclass in dog sorrow, consider another performance. I firmly believe that a dog like Merv, a scruffy terrier type played by Gus the Dog, would struggle coping with divided living arrangements. The idea of basing a full holiday film on such a setup is sustainable seems a questionable prospect.

A Familiar Formula

Honestly, Merv, the work of the writing duo and directed by Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than its premise. It functions as a holiday release from a corporate studio – the depth are modest. Its storyline is destined to be uncomplicated: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their own sadness is rivaled only by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a canine-centric retreat. There, inevitably, they will surely stumble toward the idea that they should reunite. Ensemble players – featuring familiar faces – are crafted as quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. The film's look is reminiscent of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is visibly contrived – as seen in fake snow surrounding green trees as a summer location substitutes for the Northeast.

The Canine Charisma

If these familiar elements come together into an entertaining watch hinges on the actors' work and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – those people who scroll endlessly for pet content. The film delivers a plethora of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is Merv himself, and though it results in some clunky cuts between animal action and the actors' responses, the movie delivers on walking sequences, dog depression, and, in the end, doggie joy.

The Two-Legged Cast

The same praise cannot be applied for the romantic plot. The film's approach vacillates between serious study, wacky comedy, predictable love story, and physical comedy, failing to master any one mode. This is not the actor playing Russ, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe required by the bizarre setting. Cox exhibits a likable self-deprecation that provides much of the film's charm for this ostensibly perfect couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, imparts a certain millennial quirkiness that will be to your taste or not. Her portrayal seems a touch too detached, notably when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, the canine performer is convincing at acting depressed – while no a canine thespian of that caliber, he is still an excellent dog.)

Merv tries to add substance to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, given that Merv is by far the best part of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it meets the bare minimum. The reason for their original breakup could have been more grounded and mature with more screen time and fewer direct statements. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling every expected note. Crafting a story with this canine conflict has potential – though I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.

• Merv premieres on the Amazon platform starting December 10.