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It is a widely held belief in certain circles that co-parenting a canine companion post-separation is a recipe for trouble. The consensus suggests such situations hinder ex-partners from moving forward, cause practical headaches, spark arguments, and are a nuisance for everyone involved. Apparently, and in a twist suited to a streaming movie, it also makes our furry friends to experience sadness.

Not to downplay the emotional well-being of our pets – countless people observe their profound sensitivity. If you need standout portrayal in dog sorrow, one need only look recent cinema. There is little doubt that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog brought to life by the canine actor Gus, would struggle coping with divided living arrangements. If this concept a feature-length romcom on this conflict is sustainable seems a questionable prospect.

A Familiar Formula

Honestly, Merv, the work of the writing duo and directed by director Swale, never aspires to be more profound than its premise. This is a holiday release from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth remains surface-level. Its storyline proves to be straightforward: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a cheer-up vacation to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will presumably realize the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – played by a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. The film's look carries the feel of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is clearly manufactured – exemplified by obvious snow effects surrounding green trees as a summer location substitutes for a wintery Boston.

Where the Film Shines

If these standard ingredients coalesce into an entertaining watch depends on the execution and one's taste for comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who seek out for pet content. The film delivers a plethora of adorable dog montages. The central draw is the dog, and though it results in some clunky cuts between animal action and human reaction, the movie does offer dog beach fun, dog depression, and, in the end, a tail-wagging resolution.

The Human Element

This level of success is not earned for the human side of the story. The tone wavers between emotional depth, zany antics, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, never fully committing to a consistent feel. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is fully game the humiliating and funny inherent in the dog resort scenario. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that offers a significant portion of the appeal for this ostensibly perfect couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will be to your taste or not. The character seems a little too aloof, especially when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (It should be noted, Merv himself manages flopping and whining – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still an excellent dog.)

The story strives to provide depth to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, since Merv is easily the cutest element of this cute-aiming movie. As one might predict, it just about gets by. The cause for the split might seem more grounded and mature with less exposition and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, hitting all its marks. Crafting a story with this canine conflict is not terrible – but I wouldn't call it a great one either.

• Merv premieres on the Amazon platform on December 10th.