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This is an often-repeated piece of advice among many that co-parenting a pet post-separation is ill-advised. Most will argue such situations impede ex-partners from healing, create logistical nightmares, spark arguments, and prove frustrating across the board. As it turns out, and in a twist worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it also makes our furry friends to experience sadness.

Not to downplay the mental health of dogs – many owners speak of their deep emotional capacity. If you need standout portrayal in dog sorrow, simply recall a past film. There is little doubt that a dog of Merv's nature, a scruffy terrier type played by the canine actor Gus, would struggle coping with divided living arrangements. If this concept a full holiday film on such a setup is sustainable remains debatable at best.

Predictable Foundations

To its credit, Merv, crafted by its screenwriters and under the guidance of director Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than what it is. This is a holiday release from a corporate studio – the ambitions is limited. The plot is destined to be uncomplicated: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their individual funk is rivaled only by their dog's, take a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. Once there, as expected, they will presumably stumble toward the idea that they belong with each other. Side characters – including Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – serve as the usual assortment of types. The film's look is reminiscent of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is clearly manufactured – think fake snow piled on verdant foliage as North Carolina substitutes for a wintery Boston.

Where the Film Shines

If these familiar elements come together into something enjoyable rests upon the strength of the performances and an acceptance of comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv hones in on a demographic – the kind who scroll endlessly for pet content. Audiences receive a wealth of scenes focused on the pet. The central draw is Merv himself, and even if it causes some awkward editing between the pet's "lines" and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing canine party antics, dog depression, and, ultimately, a tail-wagging resolution.

Where It Wobbles

The same praise does not extend for the human side of the story. The film's approach vacillates between emotional depth, broad humor, formulaic romance, and outright slapstick, never fully committing to any one mode. This is not Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny demanded of the dog resort scenario. Cox exhibits a charming humility that supplies a significant portion of the appeal for this seemingly ideal couple. Anna's portrayer, as is her trademark, imparts a distinctive offbeat energy that will click for some but not others. Her portrayal can feel a bit too dry, particularly when paired with Cox's genuine sadness. (For what it's worth, the canine performer manages looking despondent – not quite Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely an excellent dog.)

The story strives to provide depth to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, given that the title character is undoubtedly the cutest element of this film designed for charm. As one might predict, it just about gets by. The reason for the split could have been more adult and realistic with more screen time and fewer direct statements. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling all its marks. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting has potential – even if it's hardly a stroke of genius.

• Merv becomes available on Prime Video starting December 10.