Zooey Deschanel Stars in Unexpected Holiday Film “Merv”
Zooey Deschanel has unexpectedly delivered a standout holiday film this season with her latest romantic comedy, Merv.
In an exclusive interview with Us Weekly prior to the film’s release on Wednesday, December 10, Deschanel, 45, shared, “I didn’t initially see it as a Christmas movie. It seemed like a rom-com with a dog, which I was excited about. Then I realized, ‘Oh, it’s set during Christmas!’”
Not Your Typical Christmas Movie
Deschanel clarified that while Merv features holiday elements, it shouldn’t be mistaken for a traditional Christmas movie with elves and Santa, unlike her 2003 classic, Elf. “Christmas is just a sprinkle, an element,” she noted. “It’s something you can enjoy any time of year.”
The film revolves around ex-partners Anna (Deschanel) and Russ (Charlie Cox) as they navigate co-parenting their cherished dog, Merv, after their breakup. When Merv is diagnosed with depression, and the vet suggests medication, they decide to put aside their differences for their pet’s well-being.
Emotional Depth of the Holiday Setting
Director Jessica Swale explained to Us that setting the film during Christmas amplifies the emotional stakes. “The holiday backdrop intensifies feelings, making loneliness or heartbreak more poignant than in summer,” she said. “It adds depth to the storytelling, enhancing the drama.”
Deschanel agreed, highlighting that audiences are more empathetic during the holiday season. “If you think about someone alone on a Tuesday night, it’s not as impactful as being alone on Christmas,” she commented.
A Journey to Reconciliation
The story takes Anna, Russ, and Merv to a dog-friendly hotel in Florida, where they confront unresolved issues while Merv enjoys the company of other dogs. This sunny escape provides a setting for healing and connection.
Challenges and Joys of Filming
Swale admitted that filming with numerous dogs was often chaotic but filled with joy. “Many scenes included 20 or 30 non-professional dogs, unlike Gus, who plays Merv and is a disciplined star,” she laughed. “The unpredictability added spontaneity to the shoot.”
One memorable scene involved dog yoga, where trainers behind the camera attempted to guide the dogs, creating a humorous chaos. “It was a bit wild with all the dogs reacting to various signals,” Swale recalled.
The dog hotel, named Dog Beach, was designed to be a relaxed environment where dogs could be themselves. “It was a natural holiday spot for pets and their owners,” Swale explained.
Deschanel’s Personal Experiences
Deschanel, a self-proclaimed cat enthusiast, shared that visiting a dog resort was new for her. She has, however, traveled with her cats, much to the delight of her children, Elsie Otter, 10, and Charlie Wolf, 10, whom she shares with ex-husband Jacob Pechenik.
“The cats loved it, and my kids thought cat vacations were the best,” she reminisced. “They brought comfort during our stay in a hotel after evacuating due to fires in Los Angeles. The cats’ affection was heartwarming.”
Deschanel enjoys spending time with her children during Christmas, engaging in activities like singing and baking. “I love singing Christmas music and decorating cookies with my kids,” she shared.
Merv is now available for streaming on Prime Video.
