After being shelved by Warner Bros. three years ago as part of a tax write-off, the live-action/animation film ‘Coyote vs. Acme’ is finally due to reach cinemas this week. Its release is significant because the decision to abandon the film drew strong criticism from audiences and industry figures, becoming a prominent example of concerns over Warner Bros.’ treatment of completed films.

Warner Bros. had also shelved ‘Batgirl’ and ‘Scoob! Holiday Haunt’, neither of which has been released. Following public support, the studio reportedly allowed ‘Coyote vs. Acme’ to be offered to other distributors, but negotiations stalled over cost before Ketchup Entertainment acquired domestic distribution rights; the film was directed by Dave Green.