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This is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that co-parenting a canine companion after a breakup is a terrible idea. The consensus suggests such arrangements impede individuals from moving forward, lead to scheduling chaos, lead to tension, and are a nuisance for all parties. As it turns out, and in a twist fit for a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to the dogs themselves to feel down.

Not to downplay the emotional well-being of dogs – many owners observe their deep emotional capacity. To witness a masterclass in canine melancholy, consider another performance. I firmly believe that a dog of Merv's nature, a wired-hair terrier mix played by Gus the Dog, would struggle adjusting to life in two homes. Whether this premise a feature-length romcom around this situation works effectively remains a questionable prospect.

Standard Holiday Fare

To its credit, Merv, the work of its screenwriters and directed by playwright Jessica Swale, never aspires to be deeper than a light film. It functions as a holiday release from a streaming platform giant – the ambitions is limited. Its storyline unfolds as simple and direct: a separated couple Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their post-breakup gloom is surpassed by their dog's, take a uplifting getaway to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will presumably rediscover the idea that they belong with each other. Side characters – featuring Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. The film's look has the quality of a platform's in-house production, with a wintry atmosphere that is obviously artificial – as seen in obvious snow effects clinging to green trees as North Carolina doubles as the Northeast.

Where the Film Shines

If these standard ingredients coalesce into something enjoyable rests upon the strength of the performances and an acceptance of easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv hones in on a demographic – those people who browse regularly for pet content. It provides a plethora of adorable dog montages. The central draw is the dog, and even if it causes some clunky cuts between what the dog does and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, ultimately, doggie joy.

Where It Wobbles

This level of success cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach wavers between relationship drama, wacky comedy, formulaic romance, and silly gags, failing to master a consistent feel. The fault lies not with Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the humiliating and funny inherent in the dog resort scenario. Cox exhibits a charming humility that supplies the bulk of the chemistry for this ostensibly perfect couple. Her co-star Deschanel, in her typical fashion, imparts a certain millennial quirkiness that will be to your taste or not. Her Anna can feel a bit too dry, especially when contrasted against Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, the canine performer manages looking despondent – while no a canine thespian of that caliber, he is still an excellent dog.)

The film attempts to add substance to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – a bit of a pity, given that the dog is undoubtedly the cutest element of this film designed for charm. Unsurprisingly, it just about gets by. The catalyst for their separation could have been more adult and realistic with more screen time and less blunt explanation. Ultimately, Merv is slight and sweet, fulfilling precisely what you anticipate. Creating a movie on this shared-custody premise is not terrible – but it's hardly a brilliant concept.

• Merv becomes available on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.