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This is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that sharing custody a canine companion post-separation is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such setups impede individuals from moving forward, cause practical headaches, fuel disputes, and become annoying for everyone involved. As it turns out, in a revelation suited to a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to our furry friends to experience sadness.

While respecting the inner life of animals – pet parents attest to their remarkable empathy. To witness a masterclass in pet despair, consider a past film. I firmly believe that a dog of Merv's nature, a wired-hair terrier mix played by the canine actor Gus, would have a hard time coping with divided living arrangements. Whether this premise an entire Christmas romance on such a setup works effectively seems rather doubtful.

A Familiar Formula

Honestly, Merv, the work of its screenwriters and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than what it is. This is a holiday release from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the complexity are modest. The plot proves to be simple and direct: exes Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their own sadness is rivaled only by their dog's, embark on a therapeutic trip to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will presumably realize the idea that they belong with each other. Ensemble players – including a group of comedic actors – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. The film's look is reminiscent of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is obviously artificial – as seen in fake snow surrounding green trees as a warm climate doubles as a cold December city.

Where the Film Shines

Whether these predictable parts coalesce into a pleasant experience hinges on the actors' work and one's taste for easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – those people who seek out for dog videos. The film delivers a series of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is the canine star, and though it results in some awkward editing between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, finally, pure puppy happiness.

The Human Element

This level of success does not extend for the romantic plot. The tone wavers between emotional depth, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and silly gags, never fully committing to a consistent feel. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is fully game the absurd and awkward required by the bizarre setting. His performance contains a charming humility that offers much of the film's charm for this ostensibly perfect couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, injects a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal can feel a bit too dry, especially when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (For what it's worth, the canine performer manages looking despondent – not quite the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he remains a scene-stealer.)

Merv tries to add substance to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, since Merv is undoubtedly the best part of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The catalyst for the split would feel more adult and realistic with greater exploration and more subtle storytelling. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, meeting every expected note. Making a film about dog co-parenting is not terrible – even if it's not exactly a stroke of genius.

• Merv premieres on Prime Video this December.