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This is a common warning for numerous people that sharing custody a canine companion post-separation is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such situations hinder individuals from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and prove frustrating for all parties. Seemingly, as a development worthy of a streaming movie, it can even cause the canine in question to experience sadness.

While respecting the mental health of dogs – countless people observe their profound sensitivity. For a masterclass in canine melancholy, simply recall recent cinema. I firmly believe that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult adjusting to split households. Whether this premise a feature-length romcom on such a setup holds water is rather doubtful.

A Familiar Formula

To its credit, Merv, written by the writing duo and directed by director Swale, makes no grand claims anything more than its premise. We have here a seasonal offering from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth remains surface-level. The plot unfolds as uncomplicated: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, embark on a cheer-up vacation to a canine-centric retreat. Once there, as expected, they will surely realize the idea that they should reunite. Side characters – including a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. Visually is reminiscent of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is visibly contrived – think flurries piled on lush pines as a summer location stands in for a wintery Boston.

Where the Film Shines

How these familiar elements merge into a pleasant experience hinges on the actors' work and the viewer's appetite for cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv targets a specific viewer – those people who browse regularly for dog videos. The film delivers a plethora of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is the dog, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie delivers on walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.

Where It Wobbles

This level of success does not extend for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach vacillates between relationship drama, zany antics, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, failing to master a single genre. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward demanded of the dog resort scenario. He brings a charming humility that supplies the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, true to her usual style, imparts a distinctive offbeat energy that will either resonate with viewers. The character can feel a little too aloof, especially when alongside Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, the canine performer manages acting depressed – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he is still a very good boy.)

The story strives to provide depth to the couple's history for sequences focusing solely on them – a regrettable choice, since the dog is undoubtedly the cutest element of this feel-good picture. Expectedly, it meets the bare minimum. The cause for their separation would feel more adult and realistic with more screen time and fewer direct statements. As it stands, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling 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 Amazon Prime Video on December 10th.