Exes Reunite to Cure Their Lovesick Dog's Blues

As of November 10, 2025, a new romantic comedy titled "Merv" is set to captivate audiences. Directed by Jessica Swale, the film stars Zooey Deschanel and Charlie Cox as Anna and Russ, a former couple who share custody of their adorable dog, Merv.

Since the breakup, Merv has not been himself, and a veterinarian diagnoses him with a case of the blues. To lift Merv's spirits, Russ decides to whisk him away from Boston to a beach vacation in Florida. However, Anna promptly crashes the trip, determined to help her furry friend.

"I loved the story of a couple breaking up but sharing a dog -- and then having to reunite to cure their dog's melancholy. It just was such a funny concept," says Deschanel, 45. Cox, 42, best known for his role in the Netflix series "Daredevil," found himself in new, lighter territory, relying on Deschanel and director Swale to guide him through the comedic genre.

The two (human) leads have undeniable chemistry, according to Swale, who praises their "joyously funny and real" performances. The search for the perfect pup to play Merv was also a challenge, but the filmmakers found their match in Gus, a talented and professional working dog.

"Merv" may have some holiday elements, but Deschanel doesn't consider it a traditional Christmas movie. Instead, it's a heartwarming story about the power of love, family, and the special bond between humans and their furry companions.