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It is a common warning among many that co-parenting a pet after a breakup is a recipe for trouble. Most will argue such situations impede ex-partners from finding closure, cause practical headaches, lead to tension, and become annoying for all parties. Apparently, as a development worthy of a streaming movie, it can even cause the canine in question to become depressed.

While respecting the emotional well-being of animals – many owners attest to their profound sensitivity. For a standout portrayal in pet despair, consider recent cinema. There is little doubt that a dog of Merv's nature, a spirited little dog portrayed by the canine actor Gus, would find it difficult adapting to life in two homes. If this concept a full holiday film on this conflict is sustainable is rather doubtful.

Predictable Foundations

Fairness demands noting, Merv, the work of Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart and helmed by director Swale, doesn't pretend to be anything more than a light film. We have here a Christmas movie from a streaming platform giant – the depth remains surface-level. The plot is destined to be simple and direct: a separated couple Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, realizing that their individual funk is rivaled only by their dog's, decide on a uplifting getaway to a canine-centric retreat. Once there, as expected, they will surely rediscover the idea that they are better together. Ensemble players – including Chris Redd, Jasmine Mathews, and others – fulfill roles eccentric, underutilized, or over-the-top. Visually has the quality of a branded content, with a holiday backdrop that is clearly manufactured – exemplified by flurries piled on lush pines as a summer location stands in for a wintery Boston.

Where the Film Shines

How these familiar elements merge into a pleasant experience depends on the actors' work and an acceptance of easy entertainment. For the comfort factor, Merv targets a specific viewer – individuals who seek out for cute animal clips. Audiences receive a plethora of scenes focused on the pet. The central draw is Merv himself, and though it results in some stilted moments between the pet's "lines" and people's faces, the movie succeeds in showing walking sequences, pet moping, and, in the end, doggie joy.

The Human Element

This level of success does not extend for the interpersonal drama. The film's approach wavers between relationship drama, wacky comedy, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, not quite landing any one mode. No blame falls on Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe inherent in the unusual premise. Cox exhibits a endearing lack of ego that provides a significant portion of the appeal for this on-the-rocks couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, imparts a particular brand of eccentricity that will either resonate with viewers. Her Anna seems a bit too dry, particularly when paired with Cox's heartfelt sincerity. (On another note, Gus the Dog manages looking despondent – while no a canine thespian of that caliber, he remains a very good boy.)

The film attempts to provide depth to Anna and Russ's relationship for moments when the dog is absent – a regrettable choice, given that Merv is by far the most adorable aspect of this cute-aiming movie. Expectedly, it achieves only baseline competence. The reason for their original breakup could have been more adult and realistic with greater exploration and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is slight and sweet, meeting every expected note. Making a film with this canine conflict isn't a bad idea – though I wouldn't call it a great one either.

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