Coyote vs Acme secures theatrical release after shelving
Developing story first seen 4 hours ago
Coyote vs. ACME is now set for a theatrical release on 28 August after Ketchup Entertainment reportedly bought it, ending more than a year in limbo following Warner Bros. Discovery’s decision to shelve the completed film. Polygon’s review says the release vindicates the backlash to its cancellation, describing it as an effective blend of legal drama, buddy comedy and Looney Tunes humour.
The film follows Wile E. Coyote suing ACME over its defective products, with underachieving small-claims lawyer Kevin Avery, played by Will Forte, taking the case. Developed from Ian Frazier’s 1990 New Yorker satire, it was cancelled as a tax loss in November 2023 before Warner reportedly sought $75–80 million for it; Ketchup Entertainment reportedly acquired it for $50 million in March 2025. The review highlights rapid-fire physical gags, one-liners and references to Looney Tunes history.
- Shelved Looney Tunes film will reach cinemas on 28 August.
- Review praises its comedy and Coyote-led courtroom story.
- Ketchup reportedly bought the film for $50 million.
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Coyote vs. ACME is a live-action and animated comedy based on the long-running Looney Tunes cartoons. Wile E. Coyote is best known for repeatedly using ACME gadgets in unsuccessful attempts to catch the Road Runner, with the products often failing in spectacular ways.
The film turns that familiar joke into a court case, with the Coyote taking action against the fictional ACME company over its defective equipment. Will Forte plays the struggling lawyer who represents him, alongside animated Looney Tunes characters.
Warner Bros. Discovery had previously decided not to release the completed film, a move that drew attention because major studios sometimes cancel finished projects for financial reasons. Its reported sale to Ketchup Entertainment has allowed the film to return to cinemas.
More coverage
- Variety — ‘Coyote vs. Acme’ Review: Wile E. Coyote Stars in a Courtroom Comedy That Blends Cartoons and Live Action. But the Fizz of Anarchy Is Missing
- Collider — ‘Coyote vs. Acme’ Review: Warner Bros.' Shelved Looney Tunes Movie Was Worth the Wait
- Consequence — Coyote vs. Acme Is a True Triumph for the Underdog (or Eatius Birdius): Review
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Originally published by Polygon as “Review: ‘Coyote vs Acme’ Is Too Good To Have Been Canceled by Warner Bros.”.