‘Merv’ Trailer: Zooey Deschanel Returns to Holiday Romance on Prime Video

Prime Video has released the debut trailer for the upcoming holiday film Merv, marking Zooey Deschanel’s return to the genre after her iconic role in Elf. The romantic comedy, directed by Jessica Swale, centers on former couple Anna (Deschanel) and Russ (Charlie Cox), who embark on a vacation together to cheer up the dog they co-parent. The film is set for a global premiere on the streaming service on December 10, 2025.

Cast and Creative Team

The ensemble cast features a blend of established and rising talent. Key supporting actors include:

• Patricia Heaton (Everybody Loves Raymond)
• Ellyn Jameson (Barry)
• Jasmine Matthews (The Tomorrow War)
• Chris Reed (Saturday Night Live) Jessica Swale, a British playwright and theater director whose previous film work includes the 2020 drama Summerland, is at the helm of the project.

A Notable Holiday Season Release

Premiering just a week before major theatrical releases like Avatar: Fire and Ash, Merv is positioned as a feel-good, home-viewing alternative for the holidays. The premise of exes reuniting for the sake of their pet presents a unique and contemporary hook for the romantic comedy.

Star Context

The film represents a significant return for Deschanel, whose last film role was in 2024’s Harold and the Purple Crayon. Meanwhile, 2025 is a major year for co-star Charlie Cox, who headlines the Marvel series Daredevil: Born Again.

More from What’s After the Movie

Looking for more details on upcoming holiday films or the latest streaming releases? What’s After the Movie is your complete source for everything in entertainment, featuring box office data, in-depth movie summaries, spoiler-free reviews, and the latest industry news. Explore our guides to holiday movies and check the Prime Video release schedule for more.