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This is an often-repeated piece of advice for numerous people that sharing custody a dog post-separation is a terrible idea. Most will argue such setups hinder ex-partners from healing, cause practical headaches, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance for all parties. As it turns out, and in a twist suited to a direct-to-platform film, it also makes our furry friends to feel down.

While respecting the inner life of animals – countless people attest to their profound sensitivity. To witness a standout portrayal in pet despair, simply recall a past film. I firmly believe that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix played by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle coping with life in two homes. The idea of basing a full holiday film on this conflict is sustainable is debatable at best.

Predictable Foundations

Honestly, Merv, written by the writing duo and helmed by director Swale, makes no grand claims more profound than what it is. We have here a Christmas movie from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the complexity are modest. The narrative is destined to be uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, embark on a cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will surely realize the idea that they belong with each other. Ensemble players – played by a group of comedic actors – are crafted as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually has the quality of a branded content, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – think obvious snow effects piled on lush pines as a summer location stands in for a cold December city.

Where the Film Shines

Whether these familiar elements merge into something enjoyable depends on the actors' work and one's taste for cinematic comfort food. For the comfort factor, Merv knows its audience – those people who browse regularly for cute animal clips. It provides a wealth of scenes focused on the pet. The central draw is Merv himself, and while this leads to some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and the actors' responses, the movie does offer canine party antics, dog depression, and, ultimately, a tail-wagging resolution.

The Human Element

The same praise cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. Its style shifts uneasily between relationship drama, zany antics, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, failing to master any one mode. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is fully game the absurd and awkward demanded of the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a charming humility that supplies a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Her co-star Deschanel, as is her trademark, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will click for some but not others. Her portrayal seems a touch too detached, particularly when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (For what it's worth, the canine performer manages flopping and whining – he may not be Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still a very good boy.)

The story strives to give weight to Anna and Russ's relationship for sequences focusing solely on them – a bit of a pity, since Merv is by far the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. As one might predict, it meets the bare minimum. The reason for their original breakup would feel more grounded and mature with greater exploration and fewer direct statements. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, meeting all its marks. Making a film with this canine conflict has potential – even if I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.

• Merv streams on Prime Video on December 10th.