In 2023, Warner Bros. Discovery declared Coyote vs. Acme a loss. The studio shelved the completed live-action animation hybrid rather than release it, taking a tax write-off on the $30 million production. Seeking $80 million from potential buyers, the studio found no takers. The film sat.
Three years later, it opens in theaters Thursday, August 28, distributed by Ketchup Entertainment, which acquired distribution rights in March 2025 for a reported $50 million.
Directed by Dave Green, Coyote vs. Acme follows Wile E. Coyote as he sues the Acme Corporation for its long history of faulty products. The film is a live-action animation hybrid, with Will Forte starring as Coyote's attorney, John Cena as opposing counsel, and Lana Condor in a supporting role. It premiered at San Diego Comic-Con in July 2026.
Critics have since given it a 96% on Rotten Tomatoes and a 77 on Metacritic. According to Screen Rant, there is "clear love and care that has gone into making [it] the best movie it can be."
The question now is simpler. After three years of limbo and a studio that wanted it gone, does the audience show up?
