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It is a common warning for numerous people that jointly caring for a canine companion post-separation is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such arrangements impede ex-partners from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance for all parties. Seemingly, as a development worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause the dogs themselves to experience sadness.

Not to downplay the emotional well-being of animals – many owners observe their deep emotional capacity. For a prime example in pet despair, one need only look another performance. It seems certain that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog portrayed by Gus the Dog, would struggle adjusting to split households. The idea of basing a feature-length romcom around this situation holds water is debatable at best.

A Familiar Formula

Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by its screenwriters and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than what it is. It functions as a Christmas movie from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the complexity is limited. The narrative is destined to be straightforward: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their individual funk is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will surely realize the idea that they are better together. The supporting cast – played by familiar faces – serve as the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic carries the feel of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – think flurries piled on green trees as a summer location substitutes for a wintery Boston.

The Canine Charisma

If these familiar elements coalesce into an entertaining watch rests upon the strength of the performances and the viewer's appetite for cinematic comfort food. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – the kind who seek out for dog videos. It provides a plethora of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is Merv himself, and even if it causes some awkward editing between what the dog does and people's faces, the movie does offer walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, finally, a tail-wagging resolution.

The Two-Legged Cast

The same praise cannot be applied for the human side of the story. The tone vacillates between serious study, zany antics, predictable love story, and outright slapstick, failing to master any one mode. This is not the actor playing Russ, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe demanded of the unusual premise. His performance contains a charming humility that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal can feel a bit too dry, notably when contrasted against Cox's vulnerable performance. (For what it's worth, Merv himself manages looking despondent – he may not be a canine thespian of that caliber, he is still an excellent dog.)

Merv tries to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, considering the dog is undoubtedly the cutest element of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for their original breakup would feel more nuanced with less exposition and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, meeting precisely what you anticipate. Crafting a story about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – but it's not exactly a brilliant concept.

• Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video this December.