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This is a widely held belief in certain circles that co-parenting a dog after a breakup is ill-advised. Experts frequently claim such setups prevent ex-partners from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and prove frustrating for everyone involved. Seemingly, as a development worthy of a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to become depressed.

While respecting the mental health of dogs – pet parents speak of their remarkable empathy. To witness a prime example in pet despair, one need only look another performance. I firmly believe that a dog such as Merv, a spirited little dog portrayed by the canine actor Gus, would struggle adjusting to split households. Whether this premise a full holiday film on such a setup works effectively seems a questionable prospect.

A Familiar Formula

Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by the writing duo and helmed by playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than what it is. This is a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the complexity is limited. The narrative is destined to be simple and direct: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), forced to acknowledge that their individual funk is matched by their dog's, take a cheer-up vacation to a canine-centric retreat. There, inevitably, they will undoubtedly realize the idea that they should reunite. Side characters – including a group of comedic actors – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. The film's look carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a holiday backdrop that is clearly manufactured – exemplified by obvious snow effects surrounding verdant foliage as a warm climate stands in for the Northeast.

The Dog's Domain

Whether these familiar elements merge into a pleasant experience depends on the actors' work and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who browse regularly for dog videos. It provides a wealth of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is the canine star, and though it results in some awkward editing between animal action and people's faces, the movie succeeds in showing canine party antics, dog depression, and, in the end, doggie joy.

Where It Wobbles

This level of success is not earned for the romantic plot. The film's approach shifts uneasily between relationship drama, wacky comedy, formulaic romance, and outright slapstick, not quite landing any one mode. This is not Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny demanded of the bizarre setting. His performance contains a endearing lack of ego that supplies much of the film's charm for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, true to her usual style, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will click for some but not others. Her Anna seems a bit too dry, notably when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, Merv himself is convincing at flopping and whining – not quite Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still a very good boy.)

The film attempts to provide depth to the central romance for sequences focusing solely on them – a bit of a pity, given that Merv is undoubtedly the best part of this cute-aiming movie. Unsurprisingly, it just about gets by. The catalyst for the split would feel more adult and realistic with greater exploration and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, hitting precisely what you anticipate. Making a film on this shared-custody premise is not terrible – though it's not exactly a great one either.

• Merv becomes available on Prime Video starting December 10.