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This is a widely held belief in certain circles that co-parenting a canine companion post-separation is a recipe for trouble. The consensus suggests such situations impede individuals from finding closure, lead to scheduling chaos, lead to tension, and become annoying for all parties. Seemingly, and in a twist worthy of a streaming movie, it also makes the dogs themselves to experience sadness.

Not to downplay the emotional well-being of animals – countless people attest to their profound sensitivity. For a masterclass in pet despair, simply recall another performance. There is little doubt that a dog such as Merv, a wired-hair terrier mix brought to life by a talented dog named Gus, would struggle adjusting to split households. The idea of basing an entire Christmas romance around this situation holds water remains a questionable prospect.

Predictable Foundations

Fairness demands noting, Merv, written by its screenwriters and helmed by playwright Jessica Swale, never aspires to be anything more than its premise. This is a seasonal offering from a major tech-and-media conglomerate – the complexity is limited. Its storyline unfolds as simple and direct: former spouses Russ (Charlie Cox) and Anna, portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, confronting that their individual funk is matched by their dog's, decide on a therapeutic trip to a dog-friendly resort. At this location, predictably, they will undoubtedly realize the idea that they belong with each other. Ensemble players – played by familiar faces – fulfill roles the usual assortment of types. Its aesthetic carries the feel of a streaming service original, with a holiday backdrop that is obviously artificial – exemplified by flurries surrounding verdant foliage as a warm climate stands in for a cold December city.

Where the Film Shines

How these familiar elements come together into something enjoyable depends on the execution and one's taste for cinematic comfort food. On the latter point, Merv knows its audience – the kind who scroll endlessly for cute animal clips. It provides a series of canine-centric sequences. The main attraction is the canine star, and though it results in some stilted moments between animal action and human reaction, the movie succeeds in showing dog beach fun, canine sorrow, and, in the end, doggie joy.

The Human Element

The same praise is not earned for the human side of the story. The tone vacillates between serious study, broad humor, standard rom-com beats, and physical comedy, never fully committing to a consistent feel. This is not Charlie Cox, who is willing to embrace the silliness and cringe inherent in the unusual premise. His performance contains a endearing lack of ego that provides much of the film's charm for this seemingly ideal couple. Zooey Deschanel, as is her trademark, imparts a distinctive offbeat energy that will be to your taste or not. The character comes across as a touch too detached, notably when paired with Cox's vulnerable performance. (On another note, Merv himself succeeds in looking despondent – while no Messi from that acclaimed drama, he's definitely an excellent dog.)

The story strives to add substance to the couple's history for moments when the dog is absent – which is unfortunate, given that the dog is by far the most adorable aspect of this cute-aiming movie. Unsurprisingly, it meets the bare minimum. The catalyst for their separation could have been more grounded and mature with less exposition and less blunt explanation. As it stands, Merv is slight and sweet, hitting all its marks. Creating a movie about dog co-parenting isn't a bad idea – even if I wouldn't call it a stroke of genius.

• Merv premieres on Amazon Prime Video starting December 10.