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This is a widely held belief in certain circles that sharing custody a canine companion post-separation is a recipe for trouble. The consensus suggests such setups impede individuals from finding closure, cause practical headaches, lead to tension, and prove frustrating for all parties. Seemingly, in a revelation suited to a streaming movie, it can even cause our furry friends to experience sadness.

Without minimizing the inner life of animals – pet parents observe their remarkable empathy. To witness a prime example in pet despair, simply recall recent cinema. I firmly believe that a dog of Merv's nature, a wired-hair terrier mix brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult adjusting to divided living arrangements. The idea of basing an entire Christmas romance around this situation holds water is debatable at best.

A Familiar Formula

Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of its screenwriters and helmed by director Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than what it is. This is a holiday release from a corporate studio – the ambitions is limited. The plot unfolds as uncomplicated: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their individual funk is matched by their dog's, embark on a therapeutic trip to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will surely rediscover the idea that they belong with each other. Side characters – including familiar faces – fulfill roles eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. The film's look is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is visibly contrived – as seen in fake snow clinging to green trees as North Carolina stands in for a cold December city.

The Canine Charisma

If these standard ingredients coalesce into something enjoyable depends on the execution and the viewer's appetite for cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who scroll endlessly for cute animal clips. It provides a plethora of adorable dog montages. The central draw is the canine star, and though it results in some stilted moments between the pet's "lines" and people's faces, the movie delivers on canine party antics, pet moping, and, finally, doggie joy.

The Human Element

The same praise does not extend for the romantic plot. The film's approach vacillates between emotional depth, zany antics, predictable love story, and silly gags, not quite landing a consistent feel. The fault lies not with Cox's performance, who is willing to embrace the absurd and awkward required by the bizarre setting. He brings a charming humility that offers much of the film's charm for this ostensibly perfect couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal can feel a bit too dry, especially when paired with Cox's genuine sadness. (It should be noted, the canine performer is convincing at flopping and whining – not quite Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains a scene-stealer.)

The story strives to give weight to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – which is unfortunate, since the title character is undoubtedly the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. As one might predict, it just about gets by. The catalyst for their original breakup might seem more adult and realistic with greater exploration and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling precisely what you anticipate. Making a film about dog co-parenting has potential – but it's not exactly a brilliant concept.

• Merv becomes available on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.