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It is a common warning in certain circles that jointly caring for a canine companion after a breakup is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such arrangements hinder individuals from finding closure, cause practical headaches, fuel disputes, and are a nuisance for all parties. As it turns out, in a revelation fit for a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to our furry friends to become depressed.

While respecting the emotional well-being of dogs – pet parents speak of their deep emotional capacity. For a prime example in canine melancholy, consider another performance. It seems certain that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type brought to life by the canine actor Gus, would find it difficult adjusting to life in two homes. If this concept a full holiday film around this situation holds water remains a questionable prospect.

A Familiar Formula

Fairness demands noting, Merv, crafted by its screenwriters and helmed by Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than its premise. This is a Christmas movie from a streaming platform giant – the depth are modest. Its storyline unfolds as uncomplicated: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, forced to acknowledge that their own sadness is rivaled only by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will presumably rediscover the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – featuring a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. The film's look carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is visibly contrived – exemplified by flurries clinging to verdant foliage as a warm climate stands in for a cold December city.

The Dog's Domain

How these standard ingredients coalesce into a pleasant experience depends on the strength of the performances and the viewer's appetite for cinematic comfort food. Regarding the second aspect, Merv targets a specific viewer – the kind who scroll endlessly for dog videos. The film delivers a plethora of canine-centric sequences. The main attraction is the canine star, and while this leads to some awkward editing between the pet's "lines" and the actors' responses, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, finally, a tail-wagging resolution.

The Two-Legged Cast

This level of success does not extend for the romantic plot. Its style wavers between emotional depth, zany antics, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, failing to master any one mode. The fault lies not with Cox's performance, who is willing to embrace the absurd and awkward required by the dog resort scenario. Cox exhibits a likable self-deprecation that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Anna's portrayer, true to her usual style, brings a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. Her portrayal can feel a bit too dry, particularly when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (For what it's worth, Gus the Dog manages acting depressed – while no the award-winner from Anatomy of a Fall, he is still an excellent dog.)

The story strives to provide depth to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, since Merv is by far the cutest element of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it achieves only baseline competence. The reason for their separation might seem more adult and realistic with greater exploration and more subtle storytelling. As it stands, Merv is slight and sweet, hitting every expected note. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – even if I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.

• Merv streams on the Amazon platform starting December 10.