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It is an often-repeated piece of advice for numerous people that jointly caring for a dog following a split is ill-advised. The consensus suggests such arrangements prevent former couples from finding closure, create logistical nightmares, lead to tension, and become annoying across the board. As it turns out, in a revelation suited to a streaming movie, it also makes our furry friends to experience sadness.

Not to downplay the inner life of dogs – countless people observe their deep emotional capacity. To witness a prime example in canine melancholy, one need only look a past film. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult adjusting to divided living arrangements. Whether this premise a full holiday film on such a setup holds water is a questionable prospect.

Predictable Foundations

To its credit, Merv, crafted by the writing duo and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be more profound than what it is. It functions as a holiday release from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth remains surface-level. Its storyline is destined to be simple and direct: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their individual funk is matched by their dog's, embark on a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. Once there, as expected, they will surely realize the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – played by a group of comedic actors – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. The film's look is reminiscent of a platform's in-house production, with a wintry atmosphere that is obviously artificial – as seen in obvious snow effects clinging to lush pines as a summer location doubles as a cold December city.

The Canine Charisma

Whether these familiar elements come together into something enjoyable depends on the actors' work and an acceptance of cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv knows its audience – those people who browse regularly for cute animal clips. Audiences receive a plethora of canine-centric sequences. The central draw is Merv himself, and even if it causes some awkward editing between what the dog does and the actors' responses, the movie delivers on dog beach fun, dog depression, and, finally, pure puppy happiness.

The Two-Legged Cast

Such effectiveness is not earned for the interpersonal drama. The tone shifts uneasily between serious study, broad humor, formulaic romance, and outright slapstick, failing to master a consistent feel. The fault lies not with Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward required by the bizarre setting. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that offers a significant portion of the appeal for this on-the-rocks couple. Anna's portrayer, as is her trademark, injects a distinctive offbeat energy that will be to your taste or not. Her portrayal seems a little too aloof, notably when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (It should be noted, the canine performer is convincing at looking despondent – he may not be Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely a scene-stealer.)

Merv tries to give weight to Anna and Russ's relationship for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, considering the dog is easily the most adorable aspect of this cute-aiming movie. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The reason for the split would feel more nuanced with more screen time and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, fulfilling every expected note. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting is not terrible – but it's not exactly a great one either.

• Merv becomes available on the Amazon platform starting December 10.