Looks like Wile E. Coyote finally caught a break. After nearly two years of limbo, the much-discussed Coyote vs. Acme is no longer a shelved casualty of Hollywood accounting. Ketchup Entertainment has stepped in with a $50 million lifeline, acquiring the live-action/animation hybrid from Warner Bros. Discovery and securing a global theatrical release in 2026.
The rescue comes after intense negotiations and fan outcry over the studio’s initial plans to bury the finished film as a tax write-off—a move that sparked backlash across the entertainment industry. With a reported $70 million production budget, Coyote vs. Acme was seen as too risky for WB to release. Now, thanks to Ketchup Entertainment—also behind The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie—this Looney legal comedy will finally hit the big screen.
“We’re thrilled to have made a deal with Warner Bros. Pictures to bring this film to audiences worldwide,” said Ketchup CEO Gareth West. “It’s the perfect blend of nostalgia and modern storytelling.”
What’s the Plot?
In a brilliant twist on Looney Tunes lore, Coyote vs. Acme follows the endlessly tormented Wile E. Coyote as he sues the Acme Corporation for decades of defective, injury-inducing products. Think Erin Brockovich with anvils and rocket skates.
The film stars:
- Will Forte as Coyote’s overworked lawyer
- John Cena as the smug Acme CEO
- Lana Condor in a supporting role
Directed by Dave Green and produced by Chris deFaria and James Gunn, the film blends classic slapstick with modern satire, bringing Looney Tunes into the courtroom and maybe—just—maybe—giving Wile E. a shot at justice.
What’s Next?
The Day the Earth Blew Up brought in $10.45 million globally—modest, but enough to show there’s an audience for Looney Tunes reboots done right. With Coyote vs. Acme being a bigger-budget, star-studded affair, the hope is that it can capture the magic of Who Framed Roger Rabbit or Space Jam while introducing these iconic characters to a new generation.
For fans still mourning Batgirl or Scoob! Holiday Haunt, the success of this acquisition might just spark a trend of “uncanceling” projects with cult potential.
Verdict?
Wile E. Coyote may still be chasing the Road Runner, but at least now he’s got his day in court—and we finally get to watch it unfold. Coyote vs. Acme hits theaters in 2026. And this time, the rocket’s not gonna blow up before life.
The Geek is a working screenwriter, director and screenwriting instructor.
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