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It is a common warning among many that jointly caring for a dog post-separation is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such situations prevent former couples from healing, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance for all parties. Apparently, in a revelation worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to become depressed.

While respecting the emotional well-being of animals – pet parents speak of their deep emotional capacity. To witness a prime example in canine melancholy, one need only look a past film. It seems certain that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog brought to life by Gus the Dog, would find it difficult adjusting to split households. If this concept a full holiday film around this situation is sustainable is a questionable prospect.

Predictable Foundations

To its credit, Merv, the work of the writing duo and directed by playwright Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims deeper than what it is. We have here a holiday release from a streaming platform giant – the complexity are modest. The plot is destined to be simple and direct: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their individual funk is matched by their dog's, embark on a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will surely rediscover the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – played by Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. The film's look has the quality of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is obviously artificial – think flurries piled on green trees as North Carolina doubles as a cold December city.

The Dog's Domain

Whether these familiar elements coalesce into an entertaining watch rests upon the execution and an acceptance of easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv targets a specific viewer – the kind who seek out for cute animal clips. It provides a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The main attraction is Merv himself, and while this leads to some stilted moments between the pet's "lines" and people's faces, the movie does offer canine party antics, dog depression, and, finally, a tail-wagging resolution.

The Human Element

The same praise is not earned for the interpersonal drama. Its style wavers between emotional depth, broad humor, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, not quite landing a consistent feel. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is fully game the humiliating and funny demanded of the bizarre setting. Cox exhibits a charming humility that supplies the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Her co-star Deschanel, as is her trademark, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna can feel a touch too detached, especially when paired with Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, Merv himself is convincing at looking despondent – not quite the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he remains a scene-stealer.)

The film attempts to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, given that the dog is undoubtedly the best part of this cute-aiming movie. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for the split might seem more adult and realistic with less exposition and more subtle storytelling. As it stands, Merv is slight and sweet, meeting every expected note. Creating a movie with this canine conflict is not terrible – but I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.

• Merv premieres on the Amazon platform this December.