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This is an often-repeated piece of advice among many that jointly caring for a dog post-separation is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such arrangements impede ex-partners from finding closure, cause practical headaches, lead to tension, and prove frustrating for all parties. Apparently, and in a twist worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to become depressed.

Not to downplay the mental health of dogs – pet parents attest to their remarkable empathy. If you need masterclass in canine melancholy, consider another performance. It seems certain that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle adapting to life in two homes. Whether this premise a full holiday film on such a setup works effectively is a questionable prospect.

Standard Holiday Fare

Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and under the guidance of director Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than its premise. We have here a seasonal offering from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth remains surface-level. Its storyline is destined to be straightforward: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their post-breakup gloom is rivaled only by their dog's, take a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. At this location, predictably, they will surely realize the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – including familiar faces – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Its aesthetic carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is clearly manufactured – exemplified by flurries piled on green trees as a summer location doubles as the Northeast.

Where the Film Shines

If these familiar elements come together into an entertaining watch rests upon the strength of the performances and one's taste for easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who scroll endlessly for dog videos. It provides a plethora of scenes focused on the pet. The primary selling point is the dog, and though it results in some stilted moments between animal action and the actors' responses, the movie succeeds in showing dog beach fun, canine sorrow, and, finally, doggie joy.

The Two-Legged Cast

This level of success is not earned for the romantic plot. The tone shifts uneasily between serious study, broad humor, predictable love story, and physical comedy, failing to master a consistent feel. This is not the actor playing Russ, who is fully game the humiliating and funny demanded of the unusual premise. His performance contains a charming humility that provides the bulk of the chemistry for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, as is her trademark, imparts a distinctive offbeat energy that will be to your taste or not. Her portrayal can feel a little too aloof, especially when alongside Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, the canine performer succeeds in looking despondent – while no the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he is still a very good boy.)

The story strives to provide depth to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, given that the dog is by far the best part of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The catalyst for their separation might seem more adult and realistic with more screen time and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling precisely what you anticipate. Making a film on this shared-custody premise has potential – even if it's not exactly a great one either.

• Merv streams on Amazon Prime Video this December.