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This is a common warning among many that co-parenting a pet post-separation is ill-advised. Most will argue such arrangements prevent ex-partners from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and are a nuisance for everyone involved. Seemingly, in a revelation fit for a direct-to-platform film, it also makes the canine in question to experience sadness.

Without minimizing the mental health of our pets – pet parents speak of their profound sensitivity. If you need masterclass in pet despair, one need only look another performance. There is little doubt that a dog of Merv's nature, a wired-hair terrier mix played by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle coping with life in two homes. The idea of basing a full holiday film on this conflict is sustainable is rather doubtful.

A Familiar Formula

To its credit, Merv, written by the writing duo and directed by Jessica Swale, never aspires to be more profound than what it is. We have here a holiday release from a corporate studio – the depth is limited. The narrative proves to be straightforward: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, embark on a cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will surely realize the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – featuring Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – serve as the usual assortment of types. The film's look has the quality of a platform's in-house production, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – exemplified by flurries clinging to lush pines as North Carolina substitutes for a cold December city.

Where the Film Shines

How these standard ingredients come together into a pleasant experience rests upon the actors' work and an acceptance of comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv targets a specific viewer – those people who seek out for pet content. Audiences receive a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The main attraction is the dog, and while this leads to some stilted moments between what the dog does and the actors' responses, the movie delivers on walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, finally, a tail-wagging resolution.

Where It Wobbles

Such effectiveness is not earned for the human side of the story. The film's approach wavers between serious study, broad humor, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, never fully committing to a single genre. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny required by the unusual premise. He brings a endearing lack of ego that supplies the bulk of the chemistry for this on-the-rocks couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, imparts a certain millennial quirkiness that will click for some but not others. Her Anna comes across as a bit too dry, notably when alongside Cox's genuine sadness. (On another note, Merv himself manages looking despondent – while no the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he remains an excellent dog.)

The film attempts to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, considering Merv is undoubtedly the best part of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for their separation might seem more grounded and mature with more screen time and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, hitting precisely what you anticipate. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting has potential – though it's hardly a great one either.

• Merv becomes available on Prime Video on December 10th.