Matthew Baer’s journey to bring “Merv,” a new holiday romantic comedy featuring Zooey Deschanel and Charlie Cox, to life has spanned over a decade. The film explores the contemporary reality of co-parenting a dog following a couple’s breakup, a concept that Baer believes has grown in relevance over the years. “Eleven years ago, this was a novelty, but now… the idea of people sharing custody of their dog is somewhat of a societal norm,” he explained, signifying the movie’s timely resonance with today’s audiences.
Baer, an accomplished producer with a history of notable projects including the Angelina Jolie-directed “Unbroken,” first encountered the script for “Merv” in 2014. Enchanted by its heartfelt narrative penned by Dane Clark and Linsey Stewart, he presented the project to MGM, eventually securing the collaboration of director Jessica Swale. Although the film faced a significant delay after Amazon’s acquisition of MGM, Baer’s persistence paid off when Amazon decided to move forward with production. Filming took place in Wilmington, North Carolina, and “Merv” is set to premiere on Prime Video on December 10.
From its inception to its imminent release, Baer played a crucial role in advancing “Merv” through the complex landscape of independent film production. His experience highlights the evolving environment for filmmakers today, particularly the challenges and opportunities presented by streaming platforms. Discussing the unique storyline of a separated couple sharing their dog, Baer remarked on its broader societal implications, especially in light of increased pet adoptions during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The film features Deschanel and Cox in leading roles, a decision driven by their strong on-screen chemistry and ability to represent the nuances of their characters’ relationship. Baer credited casting director Laray Mayfield for recognizing the potential in Charlie Cox, citing her earlier work on the “Daredevil” pilot as instrumental in landing the talented actor for the role.
Navigating the landscape of independent film financing has become increasingly complex, and Baer underscored the importance of patience in achieving a project’s goals. He recalled a moment where he considered a lower-budget independent financing option but ultimately held out for the potential that a major studio could provide. His optimism about the film’s appeal, especially as a family-friendly holiday release, was a motivating factor behind his decisions.
Baer acknowledged the ongoing debate surrounding film distribution, specifically the pros and cons of theatrical releases versus streaming premieres. While many producers strive for a theatrical release, he emphasized that when addressing holiday films, streaming often offers broader reach and a more practical approach, particularly concerning marketing costs.
Amidst his work on “Merv,” Baer has maintained a commitment to other projects, revealing a robust slate of films in different stages of development. He recognizes the significant shift in how movies are financed and the pressures of attracting talent to projects while navigating the expectations of streaming services.
Reflecting on the transformations within the industry, Baer expressed nostalgia for the legacy of Warner Bros., where he began his career. He voiced concern over the potential changes in the studio’s landscape but maintained hope that its essence could endure in whatever form it takes in the future.
As the release date for “Merv” approaches, Baer remains focused on the film, acknowledging the diverse challenges that come from working with animals on set. His positive experience in casting and working with trained animals suggests that the age-old concerns about working with children and pets on film might be evolving, provided the right professionals are involved.
With “Merv” set to debut soon, its long journey highlights not only the determination of its producer but also the changing dynamics of the film industry, offering a glimpse of the positive impact streaming can have in elevating unique stories to audiences everywhere.