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This is a widely held belief for numerous people that co-parenting a dog post-separation is ill-advised. The consensus suggests such arrangements hinder former couples from moving forward, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and prove frustrating for all parties. Apparently, as a development fit for a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause the dogs themselves to feel down.

Not to downplay the inner life of dogs – many owners attest to their profound sensitivity. If you need standout portrayal in canine melancholy, one need only look another performance. There is little doubt that a dog of Merv's nature, a scruffy terrier type brought to life by Gus the Dog, would have a hard time adapting to divided living arrangements. The idea of basing a feature-length romcom on this conflict works effectively seems a questionable prospect.

Predictable Foundations

Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by its screenwriters and directed by director Swale, makes no grand claims anything more than what it is. This is a holiday release from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the ambitions is limited. The plot proves to be simple and direct: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their individual funk is surpassed by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will undoubtedly stumble toward the idea that they should reunite. Ensemble players – featuring familiar faces – serve as eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually is reminiscent of a platform's in-house production, with a holiday backdrop that is visibly contrived – exemplified by obvious snow effects piled on green trees as North Carolina doubles as a wintery Boston.

Where the Film Shines

Whether these familiar elements come together into an entertaining watch rests upon the strength of the performances and one's taste for comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – individuals who scroll endlessly for dog videos. The film delivers a wealth of scenes focused on the pet. The main attraction is the dog, and even if it causes some stilted moments between what the dog does and the actors' responses, the movie delivers on canine party antics, dog depression, and, finally, a tail-wagging resolution.

Where It Wobbles

The same praise does not extend for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach vacillates between emotional depth, wacky comedy, predictable love story, and physical comedy, never fully committing to any one mode. This is not Cox's performance, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny demanded of the unusual premise. He brings a likable self-deprecation that provides much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Anna's portrayer, as is her trademark, brings a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. The character seems a touch too detached, notably when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (It should be noted, the canine performer is convincing at looking despondent – while no a canine thespian of that caliber, he remains an excellent dog.)

The story strives to give weight to Anna and Russ's relationship for sequences focusing solely on them – a bit of a pity, considering Merv is undoubtedly the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it meets the bare minimum. The reason for their separation would feel more grounded and mature with less exposition and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling precisely what you anticipate. Making a film about dog co-parenting has potential – even if it's hardly a brilliant concept.

• Merv becomes available on Prime Video on December 10th.