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It is an often-repeated piece of advice in certain circles that sharing custody a canine companion post-separation is a terrible idea. Most will argue such setups prevent former couples from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, spark arguments, and are a nuisance across the board. As it turns out, in a revelation worthy of a direct-to-platform film, it reportedly leads to our furry friends to experience sadness.

While respecting the emotional well-being of dogs – pet parents speak of their deep emotional capacity. For a prime example in dog sorrow, simply recall another performance. I firmly believe that a dog of Merv's nature, a scruffy terrier type portrayed by the canine actor Gus, would have a hard time adapting to split households. Whether this premise a feature-length romcom around this situation works effectively is rather doubtful.

A Familiar Formula

To its credit, Merv, written by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and under the guidance of Jessica Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than what it is. We have here a seasonal offering from a streaming platform giant – the depth remains surface-level. The plot is destined to be uncomplicated: exes Russ, played by Charlie Cox and Anna (Zooey Deschanel), realizing that their post-breakup gloom is matched by their dog's, embark on a therapeutic trip to a luxury pet hotel. At this location, predictably, they will presumably stumble toward the idea that they should reunite. Ensemble players – featuring familiar faces – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. The film's look carries the feel of a branded content, with a wintry atmosphere that is obviously artificial – exemplified by fake snow surrounding lush pines as a warm climate doubles as the Northeast.

Where the Film Shines

If these familiar elements merge into an entertaining watch depends on the strength of the performances and the viewer's appetite for comfort viewing. On the latter point, Merv targets a specific viewer – those people who scroll endlessly for dog videos. Audiences receive a wealth of adorable dog montages. The primary selling point is the canine star, and even if it causes some stilted moments between what the dog does and the actors' responses, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, canine sorrow, and, in the end, doggie joy.

The Two-Legged Cast

The same praise does not extend for the human side of the story. The tone vacillates between serious study, zany antics, predictable love story, and physical comedy, failing to master a consistent feel. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is admirably committed the absurd and awkward demanded of the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that offers a significant portion of the appeal for this ostensibly perfect couple. Anna's portrayer, true to her usual style, brings a particular brand of eccentricity that will click for some but not others. Her Anna seems a touch too detached, particularly when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (For what it's worth, the canine performer manages flopping and whining – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he remains a scene-stealer.)

The story strives to add substance to the central romance for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, since the title character is easily the cutest element of this cute-aiming movie. Unsurprisingly, it just about gets by. The cause for their separation might seem more nuanced with more screen time and more subtle storytelling. In the end, Merv is gentle and pleasant, fulfilling all its marks. Making a film on this shared-custody premise isn't a bad idea – even if it's hardly a brilliant concept.

• Merv premieres on the Amazon platform this December.