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It is a common warning in certain circles that jointly caring for a dog after a breakup is ill-advised. Most will argue such arrangements hinder ex-partners from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and prove frustrating across the board. As it turns out, and in a twist suited to a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause our furry friends to feel down.

Without minimizing the mental health of animals – pet parents speak of their remarkable empathy. To witness a masterclass in dog sorrow, simply recall another performance. I firmly believe that a dog of Merv's nature, a scruffy terrier type portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle adapting to divided living arrangements. If this concept a full holiday film on this conflict works effectively seems a questionable prospect.

A Familiar Formula

Honestly, Merv, the work of the writing duo and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, never aspires to be more profound than what it is. This is a Christmas movie from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the ambitions are modest. The narrative unfolds as straightforward: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their post-breakup gloom is rivaled only by their dog's, decide on a therapeutic trip to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will surely realize the idea that they belong with each other. Ensemble players – played by familiar faces – are crafted as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. The film's look is reminiscent of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is obviously artificial – think flurries piled on verdant foliage as North Carolina doubles as a cold December city.

The Dog's Domain

If these standard ingredients coalesce into an entertaining watch depends on the actors' work and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv knows its audience – individuals who seek out for dog videos. It provides a plethora of adorable dog montages. The central draw is the dog, and though it results in some awkward editing between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie delivers on canine party antics, canine sorrow, and, in the end, a tail-wagging resolution.

The Two-Legged Cast

This level of success cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach shifts uneasily between relationship drama, zany antics, standard rom-com beats, and outright slapstick, not quite landing any one mode. The fault lies not with the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny required by the bizarre setting. He brings a charming humility that provides much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. The character comes across as a little too aloof, particularly when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (It should be noted, Merv himself manages acting depressed – not quite Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains an excellent dog.)

The story strives to give weight to the couple's history for scenes without their pet – a regrettable choice, considering the dog is easily the most adorable aspect of this cute-aiming movie. Unsurprisingly, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for their separation might seem more grounded and mature with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. In the end, Merv is light and sugary, hitting precisely what you anticipate. Creating a movie with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – though I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.

• Merv premieres on the Amazon platform this December.