The film world witnessed a dramatic twist in the tale of “Coyote vs. Acme,” a Warner Bros. Pictures’ production. Initially scheduled for a July 2023 release, the studio declared on November 9, 2023, that the film was to be shelved, citing a $30 million tax write-down. This decision placed “Coyote vs. Acme” in a similar fate as other unreleased projects like “Batgirl” and “Scoob! Holiday Haunt.” However, this move stirred substantial backlash from the film community, particularly due to its abrupt nature and the film’s completed status.
The narrative of “Coyote vs. Acme” intertwines live-action and animation, drawing inspiration from the beloved Looney Tunes character, Wile E. Coyote, and his perpetual antagonist, the Acme Corporation. The story, based on a 1990 New Yorker article by Ian Frazier, follows Wile E. Coyote as he seeks legal retribution against Acme for their faulty products, with an unlikely human attorney as his ally. The film, directed by Dave Green and written by Samy Burch, also features notable talents like John Cena, Will Forte, Lana Condor, and the voice of Eric Bauza.
In a remarkable turn of events, Warner Bros. reversed its decision just a few days after the initial announcement, influenced by the strong reactions from filmmakers and animation enthusiasts. The studio’s U-turn was not merely a response to the outcry but also an acknowledgment of the film’s potential, underscored by positive test screenings and the interest of various buyers.
A Glimpse into the Making of ‘Coyote vs. Acme’
The journey of “Coyote vs. Acme” began in August 2018, with Warner Bros. announcing the project under the production guidance of “The Lego Batman Movie” director Chris McKay. Despite initial changes in the creative team, including the departure of McKay and alterations in the writing staff, the film found its footing with Dave Green as director. The development phase also saw the involvement of James Gunn and Jeremy Slater, contributing to a storyline that promised a unique blend of humor and action.
Filming commenced in April 2022 in Albuquerque, New Mexico, a setting that pays homage to the backdrop of numerous Looney Tunes cartoons. The production wrapped up by the end of May 2022, with DNEG providing visual effects and animation services. Despite these developments, the film’s release was uncertain until the studio’s eventual reversal of its shelving decision.
The industry’s response to Warner Bros.’ initial cancellation decision underscores the film’s perceived value and potential impact. The studio’s willingness to reconsider, allowing the filmmakers to shop the movie to other distributors, speaks to the evolving dynamics in the film industry, where public and professional opinion can significantly influence corporate decisions. Reports suggest that streaming giants like Prime Video, Apple Studios, and Netflix have shown interest in acquiring “Coyote vs. Acme,” indicating a promising future for this once-endangered project.
