How 'Coyote vs. Acme' Survived Shelving to Conquer Box Office and Awards

Key points

• The film was shelved by Warner Bros. in 2023 for a tax write-off but was later acquired by indie distributor Ketchup Entertainment for $50 million.
• Director Dave Green utilized a 15-month pre-production phase to meticulously plan the interaction between live actors and animated characters, using a 'sketchvis' 3D approximation for blocking.
• The movie opened at No. 2 with $15.4 million, outperforming expectations despite a limited marketing budget.
• The film is ineligible for the Best Animated Feature Oscar because it does not meet the 75% animation requirement, but it is pursuing Best Adapted Screenplay.
• Will Forte, who plays the lead human character, described the production as a 'funeral screening' before the shelving decision, highlighting the emotional toll on the cast.

Background

The film is based on a 1990 New Yorker article by Ian Frazier. Development began in 2018, with script contributions from James Gunn. Warner Bros. CEO David Zaslav shelved the completed film in 2023, sparking industry outrage. Ketchup Entertainment acquired the rights in March 2025, releasing the film in August 2026. The film’s success is seen as a counter-narrative to Warner Bros.' austerity measures and a potential revival for the Looney Tunes franchise.

How outlets are covering it

The Hollywood Reporter emphasizes the technical innovation of the animation process, highlighting the collaborative effort between director Dave Green and his team to honor the traditional Looney Tunes aesthetic while integrating modern technology. Ars Technica focuses on the film’s tonal balance, praising its blend of slapstick humor and satire, and notes its strong box office performance despite competition from 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day.' Gold Derby analyzes the film’s awards eligibility, noting its ineligibility for Best Animated Feature but highlighting its potential for Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Score. Rolling Stone captures the emotional journey of the cast, particularly Will Forte, who discussed the frustration of the shelving decision and the subversive nature of the Looney Tunes characters.

Why it matters

The success of 'Coyote vs. Acme' demonstrates the viability of hybrid live-action/animation films and the potential for indie distributors to rescue shelved projects. It also highlights the tension between corporate austerity and creative risk in the film industry, as well as the enduring appeal of classic animation franchises.

What to watch

Ketchup Entertainment is planning Academy screenings for the film, aiming for nominations in categories such as Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Score. The film’s success may influence future decisions regarding the Looney Tunes franchise and other shelved projects at Warner Bros.