Coyote vs. Acme Hits Theaters After Years in the Vault
The live-action/animated hybrid film 'Coyote vs. Acme' has finally arrived in theaters after being shelved by Warner Bros. for years. The courtroom comedy, starring Will Forte, John Cena, and Lana Condor, was revived by indie distributor Ketchup Entertainment. It opens on August 28, 2026, with strong early reviews and box office performance.
Key points
- The film 'Coyote vs. Acme' is a live-action/animated hybrid courtroom comedy featuring Wile E. Coyote suing the Acme Corporation.
- Warner Bros. CEO David Zaslav previously shelved the completed film, deeming it a better tax write-off than a theatrical release.
- Indie distributor Ketchup Entertainment acquired and revived the project, leading to its August 28, 2026, release.
- The cast includes Will Forte, John Cena, and Lana Condor, alongside animated Looney Tunes characters.
- The film opened with strong box office numbers, earning an estimated $13-14 million in its first weekend.
- Critics and audiences have responded positively, with high scores on review aggregator sites.
Background
Our archive notes that the film's journey from vault to theater was a significant story in 2026, with earlier coverage detailing the grassroots effort to revive the project and the casting of Wile E. Coyote as the central figure. The film's release was anticipated as a major event for the Looney Tunes franchise.
How outlets are covering it
Cartoon Brew focuses on the specific Acme products that Wile E. Coyote uses, highlighting the film's comedic premise. TheWrap provides a broader overview, emphasizing the film's release details, cast, and the controversy surrounding its initial shelving by Warner Bros. Both sources agree on the film's strong reception and the role of Ketchup Entertainment in its revival.
Why it matters
The release of 'Coyote vs. Acme' marks a significant moment for the Looney Tunes franchise, demonstrating the potential for indie distributors to revive shelved projects. The film's strong box office and critical reception suggest a renewed interest in live-action/animated hybrid films and the enduring popularity of classic cartoon characters.
What to watch
The film is currently in theaters, and streaming details are not yet available. Future releases and potential sequels may depend on its continued box office performance and critical reception.
- 16 Acme Products That Help Make Wile E. Coyote's Case Cartoon Brew
- ‘Coyote vs. Acme’ Review: A Daffy Corporate Comedy The New York Times
- The resonance of Wile E. Coyote, from loony to loved The Economist
- ‘Coyote vs. Acme’ Targets $15M Opening Weekend Animation Magazine
- How to Watch ‘Coyote vs. Acme’: Is the Long-Awaited ‘Looney Tunes’ Movie Streaming? TheWrap
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