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This is a widely held belief for numerous people that jointly caring for a dog after a breakup is a terrible idea. Most will argue such setups prevent ex-partners from moving forward, cause practical headaches, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance for all parties. As it turns out, as a development fit for a streaming movie, it reportedly leads to the canine in question to feel down.

Not to downplay the mental health of our pets – pet parents observe their remarkable empathy. For a prime example in dog sorrow, consider a past film. It seems certain that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog played by the canine actor Gus, would find it difficult adjusting to life in two homes. Whether this premise a feature-length romcom on this conflict works effectively remains a questionable prospect.

A Familiar Formula

Honestly, Merv, crafted by its screenwriters and helmed by Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than what it is. It functions as a seasonal offering from a corporate studio – the depth remains surface-level. Its storyline is destined to be straightforward: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. There, inevitably, they will presumably realize the idea that they belong with each other. Ensemble players – including familiar faces – are crafted as quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. Its aesthetic is reminiscent of a platform's in-house production, with a wintry atmosphere that is obviously artificial – think flurries surrounding green trees as North Carolina doubles as the Northeast.

The Canine Charisma

How these predictable parts come together into an entertaining watch depends on the execution and an acceptance of comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who browse regularly for cute animal clips. Audiences receive a series of canine-centric sequences. The primary selling point is the canine star, and though it results in some stilted moments between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie does offer walking sequences, pet moping, and, ultimately, doggie joy.

Where It Wobbles

This level of success does not extend for the romantic plot. The film's approach shifts uneasily between relationship drama, broad humor, formulaic romance, and silly gags, not quite landing a single genre. The fault lies not with Cox's performance, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward inherent in the unusual premise. His performance contains a endearing lack of ego that supplies much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal seems a touch too detached, especially when paired with Cox's genuine sadness. (It should be noted, the canine performer succeeds in looking despondent – he may not be the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he remains an excellent dog.)

The film attempts to give weight to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, since Merv is by far the most adorable aspect of this cute-aiming movie. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The cause for the split might seem more grounded and mature with more screen time and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, meeting all its marks. Crafting a story with this canine conflict is not terrible – but it's not exactly a great one either.

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