Coyote vs. Acme set for theatrical release after studio shelving controversy

The hybrid live-action and animation film ‘Coyote vs. Acme’ is set for theatrical release following a highly controversial production history. Originally completed by Warner Bros. in 2023, the project was famously shelved as part of a tax write-off strategy, a move that drew significant backlash from fans and industry professionals.

After the film sat in limbo, Ketchup Entertainment acquired the distribution rights to bring the project to theaters. The film, directed by Dave Green with a screenplay involving James Gunn, follows Wile E. Coyote as he takes legal action against the ACME Corporation for providing defective products. The cast features Will Forte as a struggling lawyer, John Cena as the opposing attorney, and Lana Condor.

The production blends traditional Looney Tunes animation with live-action elements, exploring a courtroom battle between the cartoon character and the megacorporation. The release marks a rare instance of a shelved studio film being rescued for public viewing after significant public outcry.