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It is a common warning in certain circles that co-parenting a dog post-separation is a recipe for trouble. Experts frequently claim such arrangements prevent individuals from moving forward, lead to scheduling chaos, lead to tension, and become annoying for everyone involved. Seemingly, and in a twist fit for a direct-to-platform film, it can even cause the dogs themselves to experience sadness.

Not to downplay the inner life of animals – pet parents attest to their remarkable empathy. If you need prime example in pet despair, consider another performance. It seems certain that a dog like Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix portrayed by a talented dog named Gus, would find it difficult adjusting to divided living arrangements. Whether this premise a feature-length romcom around this situation holds water remains debatable at best.

Predictable Foundations

Honestly, Merv, crafted by the writing duo and under the guidance of playwright Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be deeper than a light film. It functions as a holiday release from a corporate studio – the complexity is limited. The plot unfolds as straightforward: former spouses Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their own sadness is matched by their dog's, embark on a cheer-up vacation to a dog-friendly resort. Once there, as expected, they will presumably rediscover the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – including familiar faces – fulfill roles eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually carries the feel of a platform's in-house production, with a holiday backdrop that is visibly contrived – think obvious snow effects piled on verdant foliage as a summer location doubles as a wintery Boston.

Where the Film Shines

How these predictable parts coalesce into a pleasant experience hinges on the execution and the viewer's appetite for comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – the kind who seek out for cute animal clips. It provides a series of canine-centric sequences. The main attraction is the dog, and though it results in some awkward editing between animal action and people's faces, the movie does offer walking sequences, pet moping, and, in the end, doggie joy.

Where It Wobbles

This level of success does not extend for the interpersonal drama. The tone wavers between serious study, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, failing to master any one mode. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the humiliating and funny inherent in the dog resort scenario. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that supplies much of the film's charm for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, injects a certain millennial quirkiness that will either resonate with viewers. The character comes across as a touch too detached, particularly when alongside Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (It should be noted, the canine performer is convincing at flopping and whining – while no a canine thespian of that caliber, he remains an excellent dog.)

The film attempts to give weight to the central romance for scenes without their pet – a bit of a pity, given that the dog is undoubtedly the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. Unsurprisingly, it achieves only baseline competence. The catalyst for their separation might seem more grounded and mature with less exposition and more subtle storytelling. In the end, Merv is light and sugary, hitting every expected note. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – even if it's hardly a brilliant concept.

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