In a move that has delighted Looney Tunes fans worldwide, Ketchup Entertainment has acquired the global distribution rights to the live-action/animated hybrid film Coyote vs. Acme from Warner Bros. Discovery. The deal, reportedly valued at approximately $50 million, paves the way for a theatrical release in 2026. Animation MagazineThe Verge
Directed by Dave Green, Coyote vs. Acme draws inspiration from Ian Frazier's 1990 New Yorker article, which humorously depicts Wile E. Coyote suing the Acme Corporation over the malfunctioning products that have consistently thwarted his pursuit of the Road Runner. The film features a star-studded cast, including Will Forte, John Cena, Lana Condor, and Tone Bell, and showcases the voice talents of Eric Bauza as Wile E. Coyote. Vulture+2Polygon+2AP News+2Animation Magazine+1Polygon+1
The journey of Coyote vs. Acme to the big screen has been tumultuous. Originally completed in 2023, Warner Bros. opted to shelve the film, citing a $30 million tax write-off as the rationale. This decision sparked significant backlash from both the creative community and fans, especially given the positive feedback from test screenings and the film's potential appeal. Despite initial interest from major studios like Amazon, Netflix, and Paramount, Warner Bros. declined their offers before ultimately reaching an agreement with Ketchup Entertainment. Wikipedia, la enciclopedia libre+6The Verge+6Wikipedia+6
Gareth West, CEO of Ketchup Entertainment, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, "We're thrilled to have made a deal with Warner Bros. Pictures to bring this film to audiences worldwide. Coyote vs. Acme is a perfect blend of nostalgia and modern storytelling, capturing the essence of the beloved Looney Tunes characters while introducing them to a new generation. We believe it will resonate with both longtime fans and newcomers alike." Polygon+4Animation Magazine+4Wikipedia+4
This acquisition marks Ketchup Entertainment's continued investment in the Looney Tunes franchise, following their previous acquisition of The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie. Fans are hopeful that under Ketchup's stewardship, Coyote vs. Acme will receive the attention and promotion it deserves, ensuring that Wile E. Coyote's long-awaited day in court is both entertaining and memorable.