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This is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that co-parenting a pet after a breakup is a terrible idea. Most will argue such setups prevent former couples from healing, lead to scheduling chaos, fuel disputes, and prove frustrating for all parties. Seemingly, in a revelation suited to a streaming movie, it can even cause our furry friends to experience sadness.

Not to downplay the emotional well-being of animals – pet parents attest to their profound sensitivity. To witness a prime example in canine melancholy, one need only look a past film. It seems certain that a dog like Merv, a spirited little dog brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would have a hard time adapting to life in two homes. If this concept a feature-length romcom on this conflict holds water remains rather doubtful.

Predictable Foundations

To its credit, Merv, the work of its screenwriters and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than its premise. We have here a holiday release from a streaming platform giant – the ambitions remains surface-level. Its storyline is destined to be uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their individual funk is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. There, inevitably, they will surely realize the idea that they should reunite. The supporting cast – played by familiar faces – fulfill roles quirky, thinly written, or broadly comic. Its aesthetic carries the feel of a platform's in-house production, with a Christmas setting that is visibly contrived – think fake snow piled on lush pines as a summer location stands in for a cold December city.

The Dog's Domain

If these predictable parts coalesce into a pleasant experience hinges on the execution and one's taste for easy entertainment. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – individuals who browse regularly for dog videos. Audiences receive a series of adorable dog montages. The main attraction is the canine star, and while this leads to some awkward editing between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie does offer dog beach fun, dog depression, and, ultimately, pure puppy happiness.

The Two-Legged Cast

The same praise is not earned for the romantic plot. The film's approach wavers between serious study, zany antics, formulaic romance, and physical comedy, never fully committing to a single genre. No blame falls on the actor playing Russ, who is fully game the humiliating and funny required by the bizarre setting. Cox exhibits a charming humility that offers much of the film's charm for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, imparts a certain millennial quirkiness that will click for some but not others. Her Anna comes across as a bit too dry, particularly when paired with Cox's genuine sadness. (It should be noted, Merv himself manages flopping and whining – he may not be Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains an excellent dog.)

Merv tries to add substance to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, considering the title character is undoubtedly the best part of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The reason for their separation could have been more nuanced with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling precisely what you anticipate. Making a film on this shared-custody premise is not terrible – but I wouldn't call it a great one either.

• Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video this December.