Coyote vs Acme Set for Theatrical Release After Studio Reversal

In a move that has delighted both fans and the animation community, Ketchup Entertainment has rescued the long-awaited film Coyote vs. Acme from obscurity, securing a theatrical release for 2026. This acquisition marks a significant turnaround for a movie that was once destined for shelving by Warner Bros. Discovery as part of cost-cutting measures.

Directed by Dave Green, Coyote vs. Acme brings the beloved Looney Tunes character Wile E. Coyote to the big screen, voiced by Emmy-winner Eric Bauza. The film’s unique plot revolves around Wile E. Coyote taking legal action against the Acme Corporation for the faulty products that have consistently thwarted his pursuit of the Road Runner. Will Forte stars as Wile E.’s lawyer, facing off against his intimidating boss, portrayed by John Cena. The cast also includes Lana Condor and Tone Bell, adding depth and humor to the story. The screenplay, written by Samy Burch, is inspired by Ian Frazier’s 1990 New Yorker article, providing a fresh take on a classic character.

The journey of Coyote vs. Acme to the screen has been nothing short of tumultuous. Initially slated for a straight-to-streaming release on HBO Max in 2023, the film fell victim to Warner Bros. Discovery’s content purge following the merger. Despite interest from various distributors, previous attempts to find a new home were unsuccessful, largely due to Warner Bros.’ high asking price of $75-80 million. This hurdle highlighted the challenges of revitalizing a project deemed too costly for streaming platforms.

The acquisition by Ketchup Entertainment has been met with enthusiasm, particularly after the success of their previous Looney Tunes release, The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie, which performed well both domestically and internationally. CEO Gareth West expressed excitement about the acquisition, emphasizing the film’s appeal to both longtime Looney Tunes fans and newcomers. This rescue underscores the enduring popularity of Looney Tunes characters and the impact of fan advocacy on studio decisions.

The shelving of Coyote vs. Acme had sparked outrage within the animation community and among fans. Actor Will Forte, in a February interview, expressed frustration with Warner Bros. Discovery’s decision, praising the film’s quality and hoping for its eventual release. Ketchup Entertainment’s acquisition not only saves the film from obscurity but also demonstrates the power of fan advocacy in influencing studio decisions.

With its blend of humor, legal drama, and beloved characters, Coyote vs. Acme is poised to captivate audiences in theaters next year. The film’s journey from the brink of cancellation to a major theatrical release is a testament to the enduring appeal of Looney Tunes and the dedication of its fans.

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The acquisition of Coyote vs. Acme by Ketchup Entertainment marks a significant milestone in the film’s journey, which has faced numerous challenges since its inception. The project, directed by Dave Green, was initially greenlit by Warner Bros., but its fate hung in the balance following the merger with Discovery. Despite the setbacks, the film’s unique premise and star-studded cast kept it in the spotlight, with many industry insiders expressing confidence in its potential.

One of the key factors that contributed to the film’s initial struggles was its production budget, which, while substantial, was deemed too high for a straight-to-streaming release. However, Ketchup Entertainment saw an opportunity to bring this ambitious project to the big screen, recognizing its potential to resonate with both nostalgic fans of the Looney Tunes franchise and newer audiences. The film’s blend of slapstick humor, witty legal drama, and heartfelt moments is expected to appeal to a broad demographic, making it an attractive addition to Ketchup’s slate of upcoming releases.

Chris deFaria and James Gunn, who serve as producers on the film, have been instrumental in guiding the project through its development. DeFaria, known for his work on films like Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse and The LEGO Movie, brought his expertise in balancing humor and action to the table. Gunn, a fan-favorite director and writer, contributed to the film’s tone and character development, ensuring that Wile E. Coyote’s antics remain true to the spirit of the original Looney Tunes cartoons while introducing fresh elements to the story.

Marketing for Coyote vs. Acme is expected to ramp up in the coming months, with Ketchup Entertainment planning a campaign that highlights the film’s unique blend of humor and heart. Trailers and promotional materials will likely focus on the chemistry between Will Forte and John Cena, as well as the film’s visually impressive animation and live-action hybrid style. The studio is also planning to leverage the enduring popularity of Looney Tunes, with tie-in merchandise and promotional partnerships aimed at both children and adults.

Fans of the Looney Tunes franchise have been vocal about their excitement for the film, taking to social media to express their gratitude to Ketchup Entertainment for giving Coyote vs. Acme a second chance. The film’s release is seen as a victory for fan advocacy, proving that audience passion can play a significant role in determining the fate of beloved projects. As the release date approaches, anticipation is building for what promises to be a memorable cinematic experience that honors the legacy of Wile E. Coyote while introducing him to a new generation of moviegoers.

Conclusion

The rescue of Coyote vs. Acme by Ketchup Entertainment is a triumph for both fans and the animation community. This film, with its unique blend of humor, legal drama, and beloved characters, is set to captivate audiences in theaters in 2026. The journey from near-cancellation to a major theatrical release underscores the enduring appeal of Looney Tunes and the power of fan advocacy. With a star-studded cast and a story that balances nostalgia with fresh ideas, Coyote vs. Acme is poised to delight both long-time fans and new generations of moviegoers.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will Coyote vs. Acme be released?

The film is scheduled for a theatrical release in 2026.

Who is in the cast of Coyote vs. Acme?

The cast includes Eric Bauza as the voice of Wile E. Coyote, Will Forte as Wile E.’s lawyer, John Cena as the intimidating boss, Lana Condor, and Tone Bell.

What is the plot of Coyote vs. Acme?

The film follows Wile E. Coyote as he takes legal action against the Acme Corporation for the faulty products that have thwarted his pursuit of the Road Runner.

Why was Coyote vs. Acme nearly canceled?

The film faced challenges due to Warner Bros. Discovery’s cost-cutting measures and a high asking price of $75-80 million, which made it difficult to find a new distributor.

Who acquired Coyote vs. Acme and why?

Ketchup Entertainment acquired the film, recognizing its potential to resonate with both nostalgic fans and new audiences, and plans to give it a theatrical release.