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This is a widely held belief in certain circles that co-parenting a dog post-separation is ill-advised. Most will argue such situations prevent ex-partners from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and prove frustrating across the board. Seemingly, and in a twist fit for a streaming movie, it also makes the canine in question to become depressed.

Without minimizing the emotional well-being of dogs – pet parents speak of their profound sensitivity. If you need masterclass in dog sorrow, one need only look recent cinema. I firmly believe that a dog like Merv, a scruffy terrier type played by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult adjusting to split households. If this concept a full holiday film on this conflict works effectively remains a questionable prospect.

A Familiar Formula

Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of its screenwriters and helmed by playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than what it is. This is a holiday release from a streaming platform giant – the ambitions are modest. The plot unfolds as uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their own sadness is matched by their dog's, take a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. There, inevitably, they will surely stumble toward the idea that they are better together. Side characters – played by Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. The film's look carries the feel of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is visibly contrived – think fake snow piled on lush pines as a warm climate doubles as the Northeast.

Where the Film Shines

Whether these familiar elements come together into an entertaining watch hinges on the execution and an acceptance of comfort viewing. For the comfort factor, 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 the canine star, and while this leads to some clunky cuts between animal action and the actors' responses, the movie does offer canine party antics, pet moping, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.

The Human Element

This level of success cannot be applied for the romantic plot. Its style shifts uneasily between relationship drama, wacky comedy, predictable love story, and outright slapstick, not quite landing a consistent feel. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is fully game the absurd and awkward demanded of the dog resort scenario. He brings a endearing lack of ego that supplies the bulk of the chemistry for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, true to her usual style, injects a certain millennial quirkiness that will be to your taste or not. Her portrayal seems a bit too dry, especially when contrasted against Cox's vulnerable performance. (It should be noted, Merv himself manages looking despondent – while no 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, considering Merv is undoubtedly the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. As one might predict, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for their separation would feel more nuanced with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling every expected note. Creating a movie with this canine conflict is not terrible – even if it's not exactly a brilliant concept.

• Merv streams on the Amazon platform starting December 10.