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This is a widely held belief among many that jointly caring for a pet following a split is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such setups impede individuals from healing, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and are a nuisance for everyone involved. Seemingly, as a development suited to a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to the canine in question to experience sadness.

Not to downplay the inner life of dogs – countless people speak of their remarkable empathy. To witness a masterclass in pet despair, one need only look recent cinema. I firmly believe that a dog like Merv, a scruffy terrier type brought to life by Gus the Dog, would struggle coping with life in two homes. If this concept a feature-length romcom around this situation is sustainable remains rather doubtful.

A Familiar Formula

Honestly, Merv, the work of the writing duo and directed by director Swale, makes no grand claims anything more than its premise. It functions as a holiday release from a corporate studio – the ambitions remains surface-level. Its storyline proves to be uncomplicated: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, take a cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. There, inevitably, they will undoubtedly realize the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – featuring Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. The film's look carries the feel of a platform's in-house production, with a wintry atmosphere that is clearly manufactured – as seen in obvious snow effects piled on green trees as North Carolina doubles as a cold December city.

Where the Film Shines

If these standard ingredients come together into an entertaining watch hinges on the execution and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who scroll endlessly for pet content. Audiences receive a wealth of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is the canine star, and though it results in some awkward editing between animal action and people's faces, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, dog depression, and, in the end, a tail-wagging resolution.

Where It Wobbles

This level of success is not earned for the human side of the story. The tone vacillates between emotional depth, zany antics, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, failing to master a consistent feel. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny demanded of the dog resort scenario. He brings a endearing lack of ego that offers a significant portion of the appeal for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal seems a bit too dry, particularly when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (For what it's worth, Gus the Dog manages flopping and whining – he may not be the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he is still a scene-stealer.)

The story strives to provide depth to the couple's history for sequences focusing solely on them – which is unfortunate, considering the dog is undoubtedly the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. As one might predict, it just about gets by. The cause for their separation could have been more nuanced with greater exploration and more subtle storytelling. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, meeting all its marks. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting is not terrible – but it's not exactly a stroke of genius.

• Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video on December 10th.