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This is an often-repeated piece of advice among many that sharing custody a dog post-separation is a terrible idea. The consensus suggests such situations hinder individuals from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, fuel disputes, and become annoying for everyone involved. Seemingly, as a development worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it also makes our furry friends to experience sadness.

Not to downplay the mental health of our pets – countless people attest to their profound sensitivity. For a masterclass in dog sorrow, simply recall recent cinema. I firmly believe that a dog like Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix portrayed by Gus the Dog, would have a hard time coping with life in two homes. Whether this premise a feature-length romcom around this situation holds water remains rather doubtful.

Predictable Foundations

To its credit, Merv, the work of the writing duo and under the guidance of director Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than a light film. It functions as a Christmas movie from a corporate studio – the ambitions are modest. The narrative proves to be simple and direct: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), forced to acknowledge that their own sadness is matched by their dog's, decide on a therapeutic trip to a dog-friendly resort. There, inevitably, they will undoubtedly stumble toward the idea that they should reunite. Ensemble players – including a group of comedic actors – are crafted as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – as seen in flurries clinging to lush pines as a summer location stands in for the Northeast.

The Canine Charisma

Whether these predictable parts coalesce into something enjoyable rests upon the execution and one's taste for easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who browse regularly for pet content. The film delivers a plethora of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is the canine star, and though it results in some awkward editing between the pet's "lines" and the actors' responses, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, dog depression, and, in the end, a tail-wagging resolution.

Where It Wobbles

This level of success does not extend for the interpersonal drama. The tone vacillates between serious study, wacky comedy, predictable love story, and physical comedy, not quite landing a consistent feel. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward demanded of the bizarre setting. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that offers much of the film's charm for this ostensibly perfect couple. Anna's portrayer, true to her usual style, injects a distinctive offbeat energy that will be to your taste or not. Her Anna can feel a touch too detached, particularly when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (It should be noted, Merv himself manages looking despondent – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he is still a scene-stealer.)

The story strives to give weight to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, given that the title character is easily the cutest element of this feel-good picture. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for their separation might seem more nuanced with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is gentle and pleasant, hitting all its marks. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting is not terrible – but it's not exactly a brilliant concept.

• Merv premieres on Prime Video this December.