Coyote vs. Acme Hits Theaters After Three-Year Shelving Saga
The live-action/animated hybrid 'Coyote vs. Acme' opens in theaters on August 28, 2026, following a three-year delay after Warner Bros. Discovery shelved the film in November 2023 for tax purposes. Ketchup Entertainment acquired the project in March 2025, saving it from indefinite storage. The film, directed by Dave Green and starring Will Forte, John Cena, and Lana Condor, has received glowing reviews and strong audience support, with cast members crediting fan advocacy for its eventual release.
Key points
- Warner Bros. Discovery shelved 'Coyote vs. Acme' in November 2023 to secure a tax write-off, leading to a 'funeral screening' for the cast and crew.
- Ketchup Entertainment acquired the film in March 2025 and scheduled it for a summer 2026 theatrical release, opening August 28.
- Will Forte described the delay as an 'emotional roller coaster,' admitting he felt 'gaslit' but was validated by positive reviews and fan support.
- Lana Condor called the 'funeral screening' 'horrible' and emotionally devastating, while director Dave Green described it as a 'celebratory' party for the team.
- The film, based on a 1990 New Yorker article, blends 2D animation with live-action, featuring Wile E. Coyote suing Acme Corporation for defective products.
Background
Our earlier coverage noted that Warner Bros. Discovery’s decision to shelve the film highlighted a pattern of discarding finished projects for financial reasons. The acquisition by Ketchup Entertainment, reportedly for around $50 million, was seen as a significant indie distributor move. Previous articles also mentioned the film’s blend of corporate satire and zany gags, drawing comparisons to 'Who Framed Roger Rabbit' and 'The Verdict.'
How outlets are covering it
The Hollywood Reporter emphasizes the emotional impact on Will Forte, who felt 'gaslit' during the shelving period but was validated by positive reviews. Variety focuses on the 'funeral screening' held by the cast and crew, with Lana Condor describing it as 'horrible' and Dave Green calling it 'celebratory.' The Los Angeles Times praises the film’s subversive humor and social commentary, noting its relevance to modern corporate practices. The Atlantic highlights the film’s origins in a 1990 New Yorker article and the long development history, including earlier attempts by Scott Rudin. Some critics, as noted in our archive, argue the film is a 'courtroom dud,' but the majority of recent coverage highlights its positive reception and fan-driven revival.
Why it matters
The release of 'Coyote vs. Acme' underscores the impact of fan advocacy in the film industry and the challenges faced by independent distributors in acquiring shelved projects. It also highlights the tension between studio financial strategies and creative projects, with Warner Bros. Discovery’s decision to shelve the film for tax purposes drawing criticism. The film’s success could influence future decisions by studios and distributors regarding the fate of completed but unreleased projects.
What to watch
The film is set to open in wide release on August 28, 2026. Box office performance will be closely watched, given the film’s underdog status and the significant fan support it has garnered. There are no confirmed plans for a sequel, with director Dave Green stating he has not thought beyond the current release.
- Will Forte Says Glowing Reviews for ‘Coyote vs. Acme’ “Make It Feel Like You’re Not Crazy,” Admits “I Felt Gaslit For a While” The Hollywood Reporter
- The resonance of Wile E. Coyote, from loony to loved The Economist
- Review: Fanged and funny, 'Coyote vs. Acme' gives audiences the last — and loudest — laugh Los Angeles Times
- Why Was This ‘Looney Tunes’ Movie Almost Shelved for Good? The Atlantic
- 'Coyote vs. Acme' Cast and Crew Held a 'Funeral Screening' Variety
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