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It is a widely held belief in certain circles that co-parenting a dog post-separation is a terrible idea. The consensus suggests such situations hinder ex-partners from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and are a nuisance for everyone involved. As it turns out, as a development suited to a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to feel down.

Not to downplay the mental health of dogs – pet parents observe their deep emotional capacity. For a prime example in canine melancholy, one need only look a past film. I firmly believe that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog portrayed by the canine actor Gus, would struggle coping with split households. If this concept a feature-length romcom around this situation is sustainable is a questionable prospect.

A Familiar Formula

Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by its screenwriters and directed by director Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than a light film. It functions as a holiday release from a streaming platform giant – the depth are modest. The plot is destined to be uncomplicated: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), confronting that their own sadness is rivaled only by their dog's, take a therapeutic trip to a dog-friendly resort. There, inevitably, they will presumably realize the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – including a group of comedic actors – are crafted as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. The film's look is reminiscent of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is obviously artificial – as seen in flurries surrounding lush pines as North Carolina substitutes for a wintery Boston.

Where the Film Shines

How these familiar elements come together 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 knows its audience – individuals who seek out for cute animal clips. The film delivers a plethora of canine-centric sequences. The central draw is Merv himself, and though it results in some clunky cuts between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing canine party antics, dog depression, and, ultimately, doggie joy.

The Two-Legged Cast

Such effectiveness is not earned for the interpersonal drama. Its style wavers between emotional depth, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and silly gags, never fully committing to any one mode. This is not Cox's performance, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe required by the unusual premise. His performance contains a charming humility that offers the bulk of the chemistry for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, brings a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. The character comes across as a touch too detached, especially when alongside Cox's genuine sadness. (It should be noted, the canine performer succeeds in acting depressed – not quite Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains an excellent dog.)

The film attempts to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for sequences focusing solely on them – which is unfortunate, considering the title character is by far the best part of this feel-good picture. As one might predict, it meets the bare minimum. The catalyst for their separation might seem more grounded and mature with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. In the end, Merv is light and sugary, meeting every expected note. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – but it's hardly a brilliant concept.

• Merv becomes available on Prime Video starting December 10.