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It is a common warning in certain circles that jointly caring for a dog following a split is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such arrangements impede former couples from finding closure, cause practical headaches, fuel disputes, and prove frustrating for all parties. As it turns out, as a development fit for a streaming movie, it can even cause the dogs themselves to experience sadness.

Without minimizing the inner life of animals – pet parents observe their deep emotional capacity. For a masterclass in dog sorrow, simply recall a past film. I firmly believe that a dog such as Merv, a spirited little dog played by a talented dog named Gus, would have a hard time adjusting to split households. If this concept an entire Christmas romance on such a setup holds water seems a questionable prospect.

Predictable Foundations

Honestly, Merv, crafted by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and directed by Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than its premise. We have here a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the depth are modest. Its storyline proves to be straightforward: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), forced to acknowledge that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, embark on a cheer-up vacation to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will undoubtedly rediscover the idea that they are better together. Side characters – featuring Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – serve as the usual assortment of types. The film's look is reminiscent of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is clearly manufactured – as seen in flurries clinging to green trees as a summer location stands in for the Northeast.

Where the Film Shines

Whether these predictable parts merge into an entertaining watch hinges on the execution and the viewer's appetite for comfort viewing. For the comfort factor, Merv targets a specific viewer – the kind who seek out for pet content. Audiences receive a plethora of adorable dog montages. The central draw is Merv himself, and though it results in some awkward editing between animal action and people's faces, the movie delivers on walking sequences, dog depression, and, in the end, a tail-wagging resolution.

The Human Element

The same praise cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. Its style wavers between serious study, zany antics, formulaic romance, and silly gags, not quite landing a consistent feel. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the silliness and cringe demanded of the dog resort scenario. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that offers much of the film's charm for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, in her typical fashion, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal can feel a little too aloof, particularly when contrasted against Cox's vulnerable performance. (For what it's worth, Gus the Dog is convincing at looking despondent – he may not be a canine thespian of that caliber, he is still a very good boy.)

Merv tries to give weight to Anna and Russ's relationship for sequences focusing solely on them – a bit of a pity, since the title character is undoubtedly the cutest element of this cute-aiming movie. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The catalyst for their separation could have been more nuanced with less exposition and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling all its marks. Crafting a story with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – even if it's hardly a great one either.

• Merv becomes available on the Amazon platform starting December 10.