Ketchup Entertainment saves 'Coyote vs. Acme' from the shelf

In early 2023, Warner Bros. decided to shelve several films, including the Looney Tunes production 'Coyote vs. Acme', as part of a strategic tax write-off. Following a significant organizational change within Warner Bros. due to the pandemic, this decision sparked widespread criticism among creators and audiences who were frustrated by the cancelation of finished projects. Eventually, Ketchup Entertainment announced their acquisition of the film for an undisclosed sum, injecting new life into the project after it had been abandoned. Ketchup plans to release the film theatrically at an unspecified date, expressing their excitement about connecting the movie to a global audience. This movie, directed by Dave Green, is uniquely based on a New Yorker article by Ian Frazier and features the beloved character Wile E. Coyote in a legal battle against Acme Corporation, holding it accountable for its defective products that have repeatedly failed him in his pursuit of the Road Runner. Starring notable actors John Cena and Will Forte, the film is described as a hybrid of live-action and animation, making it appealing not only to fans of the original Looney Tunes but also introducing the characters to a modern audience. This acquisition is particularly significant, as 'Coyote vs. Acme' is one of the few completed films that Warner Bros. chose to shelve alongside other high-profile projects such as 'Batgirl' and 'Scoob! Holiday Haunt'. These choices were seen as controversial considering the amount of investment already put into the productions—$70 million for 'Coyote vs. Acme' alone. Prior to acquiring the rights, Ketchup Entertainment had also successfully released another Looney Tunes feature that was similarly discarded by Warner Bros. That film had grossed $8.2 million in domestic ticket sales over a three-week period, indicating a potential market for these revived animations. Ketchup's commitment to bringing the film to a theatrical platform suggests a hopeful outlook for those involved in its creation and a response to the outcry from fans about the previous decision to shelve critically completed works. Gareth West, the chief executive of Ketchup, spoke positively about 'Coyote vs. Acme', emphasizing its combination of nostalgia and modern storytelling designed to resonate with both old fans and newer audiences. Given the changing landscape within the entertainment industry and shifting audience demands, Ketchup's move may reflect a broader trend of reclaiming projects that are culturally significant, opening doors for previously ignored artistic works to see the light of day once more, and revamping audience engagement with beloved characters.