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It is a common warning among many that co-parenting a canine companion following a split is a terrible idea. The consensus suggests such situations impede former couples from finding closure, cause practical headaches, spark arguments, and become annoying across the board. As it turns out, in a revelation fit for a streaming movie, it also makes the canine in question to feel down.

While respecting the emotional well-being of dogs – pet parents speak of their remarkable empathy. If you need standout portrayal in dog sorrow, consider another performance. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a scruffy terrier type portrayed by the canine actor Gus, would struggle coping with life in two homes. If this concept a full holiday film on such a setup works effectively remains debatable at best.

Predictable Foundations

Honestly, Merv, crafted by its screenwriters and directed by director Swale, makes no grand claims anything more than what it is. It functions as a holiday release from a corporate studio – the complexity remains surface-level. The plot proves to be straightforward: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their own sadness is surpassed by their dog's, embark on a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. Once there, as expected, they will undoubtedly realize the idea that they belong with each other. The supporting cast – including a group of comedic actors – fulfill roles eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. The film's look is reminiscent of a streaming service original, with a Christmas setting that is clearly manufactured – exemplified by fake snow clinging to lush pines as a warm climate stands in for the Northeast.

Where the Film Shines

If these standard ingredients merge into something enjoyable hinges on the execution and an acceptance of comfort viewing. Regarding the second aspect, Merv knows its audience – the kind who browse regularly for cute animal clips. Audiences receive a wealth of canine-centric sequences. The main attraction is Merv himself, and though it results in some stilted moments between animal action and the actors' responses, the movie does offer canine party antics, dog depression, and, in the end, pure puppy happiness.

The Human Element

Such effectiveness cannot be applied for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach vacillates between serious study, broad humor, formulaic romance, and silly gags, never fully committing to any one mode. No blame falls on Cox's performance, who is willing to embrace the absurd and awkward inherent in the unusual premise. He brings a endearing lack of ego that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this ostensibly perfect couple. Zooey Deschanel, in her typical fashion, injects a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna seems a little too aloof, notably when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (For what it's worth, the canine performer is convincing at acting depressed – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely an excellent dog.)

The story strives to give weight to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, since the title character is easily the most adorable aspect of this feel-good picture. Expectedly, it meets the bare minimum. The catalyst for the split could have been more grounded and mature with more screen time and fewer direct statements. Ultimately, Merv is light and sugary, hitting every expected note. Making a film about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – but I wouldn't call it a great one either.

• Merv becomes available on Prime Video on December 10th.