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It is a widely held belief for numerous people that co-parenting a dog after a breakup is ill-advised. Most will argue such situations impede ex-partners from healing, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and are a nuisance across the board. As it turns out, and in a twist suited to a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to the canine in question to experience sadness.

Not to downplay the inner life of dogs – many owners attest to their profound sensitivity. For a prime example in dog sorrow, consider another performance. There is little doubt that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog portrayed by Gus the Dog, would find it difficult adapting to divided living arrangements. The idea of basing a full holiday film on such a setup holds water remains a questionable prospect.

Standard Holiday Fare

Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and directed by Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims deeper than a light film. This is a Christmas movie from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth remains surface-level. Its storyline proves to be straightforward: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, forced to acknowledge that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, embark on a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will surely rediscover the idea that they are better together. The supporting cast – featuring a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. The film's look has the quality of a streaming service original, with a wintry atmosphere that is obviously artificial – as seen in obvious snow effects piled on green trees as North Carolina substitutes for the Northeast.

The Dog's Domain

Whether these standard ingredients merge into an entertaining watch depends on the actors' work and an acceptance of easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who browse regularly for dog videos. The film delivers a wealth of scenes focused on the pet. The primary selling point is Merv himself, and though it results in some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and people's faces, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, dog depression, and, in the end, a tail-wagging resolution.

The Human Element

Such effectiveness is not earned for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach shifts uneasily between relationship drama, wacky comedy, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, not quite landing any one mode. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe demanded of the bizarre setting. He brings a likable self-deprecation that offers much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, injects a distinctive offbeat energy that will be to your taste or not. Her portrayal seems a touch too detached, particularly when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, Merv himself succeeds in looking despondent – not quite a canine thespian of that caliber, he remains a scene-stealer.)

Merv tries to provide depth to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, considering the title character is easily the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The reason for their original breakup might seem more grounded and mature with greater exploration and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling all its marks. Creating a movie with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – but it's hardly a stroke of genius.

• Merv becomes available on Prime Video on December 10th.