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This is a widely held belief in certain circles that jointly caring for a dog post-separation is a terrible idea. Experts frequently claim such situations impede former couples from finding closure, cause practical headaches, lead to tension, and become annoying for everyone involved. Seemingly, in a revelation fit for a streaming movie, it can even cause the dogs themselves to become depressed.

Without minimizing the inner life of dogs – pet parents speak of their profound sensitivity. To witness a standout portrayal in canine melancholy, consider another performance. It seems certain that a dog of Merv's nature, a scruffy terrier type played by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle adapting to life in two homes. If this concept a feature-length romcom on such a setup holds water seems a questionable prospect.

Standard Holiday Fare

Honestly, Merv, crafted by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and helmed by Jessica Swale, makes no grand claims deeper than its premise. It functions as a holiday release from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the depth remains surface-level. The plot proves to be simple and direct: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their post-breakup gloom is rivaled only by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will presumably realize the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – played by Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – are crafted as the usual assortment of types. Visually carries the feel of a platform's in-house production, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – as seen in obvious snow effects surrounding green trees as a summer location substitutes for the Northeast.

Where the Film Shines

If these familiar elements coalesce into an entertaining watch hinges on the execution and an acceptance of comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who browse regularly for dog videos. It provides a plethora of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is the canine star, and while this leads to some clunky cuts between the pet's "lines" and the actors' responses, the movie delivers on dog beach fun, dog depression, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.

The Human Element

This level of success cannot be applied for the romantic plot. The tone vacillates between relationship drama, wacky comedy, predictable love story, and outright slapstick, failing to master a single genre. This is not the actor playing Russ, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward required by the dog resort scenario. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that provides the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Her co-star Deschanel, as is her trademark, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna can feel a bit too dry, notably when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (For what it's worth, the canine performer succeeds in acting depressed – while no a canine thespian of that caliber, he remains an excellent dog.)

Merv tries to give weight to the central romance for scenes without their pet – which is unfortunate, given that Merv is by far the most adorable aspect of this film designed for charm. Expectedly, it just about gets by. The reason for their original breakup would feel more nuanced with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, meeting all its marks. Creating a movie with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – though I wouldn't call it a great one either.

• Merv premieres on Prime Video this December.