Coyote vs. Acme Set to Make Waves at Cannes

Coyote vs. Acme, the second feature film from the beloved Looney Tunes franchise, is gearing up to present itself to global buyers at the upcoming Cannes Film Market, thanks to Ketchup Entertainment’s timely intervention. This project, a unique blend of live-action and 2D animation, will have Paris-based Kinology overseeing its international sales.

A Strategic Acquisition

After being shelved by Warner Bros. Discovery in late 2023, Ketchup’s acquisition of Coyote vs. Acme for $50 million was confirmed in late March. The studio is eyeing a theatrical release in the U.S. for 2026. Earlier this year, Ketchup also released the fully-animated feature The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie, which was similarly produced and then set aside by Warner Bros.

A Fresh Take on a Classic

The film follows Wile E. Coyote, who has reached his breaking point with the Acme Corporation’s faulty products that consistently fail him in his relentless pursuit of the Road Runner. In a twist, he hires down-on-his-luck billboard attorney Kevin Avery, portrayed by Will Forte, to take on Acme in a lawsuit. The case pits him against Buddy Crane, played by John Cena, who represents Acme as Kevin’s former boss. The ensemble cast also includes P.J. Byrne, Tone Bell, Martha Kelly, and Lana Condor, with the iconic Eric Bauza lending his voice to various classic characters.

Creative Leadership

Directed by Dave Green, known for Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows and Earth to Echo, the screenplay is crafted by Samy Burch, with a story developed by James Gunn, Jeremy Slater, and Burch. The production team features Chris DeFaria from The LEGO Movie and James Gunn from Guardians of the Galaxy.

A Vision for Success

Gareth West, CEO of Ketchup Entertainment, shared with Variety: “We’re not just bringing a family film to Cannes — we’re presenting a global event. Coyote vs. Acme is a genuine four-quadrant crowd-pleaser. The performances are outstanding, the world-building is remarkable, and Dave Green has crafted something that is visually innovative and emotionally resonant, honoring the Looney Tunes legacy while propelling it into a new dimension.”

[Source: Variety]