Festivals - Cannes  2025 : Coyote vs. Acme: From Shelved Dream to Cannes Highlight

By Mulder, 08 may 2025

The story of Coyote vs. Acme is nothing short of cinematic in itself, filled with unexpected plot twists, passionate creators, and a relentless journey from oblivion to international anticipation. This upcoming live-action/animated hybrid film, directed by Dave Green, combines the classic antics of Wile E. Coyote with the biting satire of modern legal drama. Starring Will Forte, John Cena, and Lana Condor, the film reimagines the beloved Looney Tunes rivalry as a courtroom battle that pits one of animation’s most resilient underdogs against the mighty Acme Corporation. The result is a bold and playful comedy that both honors and redefines the legacy of Looney Tunes for today’s audience.

The premise alone is brilliant in its simplicity: After years of being sabotaged by Acme products in his relentless pursuit of the Road Runner, Wile E. Coyote finally takes legal action. Teaming up with down-on-his-luck human lawyer Kevin Avery, played by Forte, the pair sues the Acme Corporation, represented by none other than John Cena’s intimidating attorney Buddy Crane. It’s a classic David versus Goliath story wrapped in the wacky, unpredictable energy that made Looney Tunes iconic.

The film’s journey to the big screen, however, has been far from straightforward. Initially announced in 2018, the project went through several hands before Dave Green was tapped to direct in 2019. The screenplay saw contributions from Samy Burch, James Gunn, and Jeremy Slater, combining satirical wit with heartfelt character moments. Despite the undeniable talent involved, Coyote vs. Acme became one of the many victims of Warner Bros. Discovery’s cost-cutting measures. In November 2023, the studio announced the film’s shelving, citing a desire to claim a $30 million tax write-off rather than release the finished project. The news sparked a wave of outrage among filmmakers and fans alike.

Social media erupted with the hashtag #ReleaseCoyoteVsAcme, with industry veterans like Phil Lord and Christopher Miller voicing their support. Many described the film as a modern classic, blending nostalgia with fresh comedic storytelling. One particular anecdote that resonated was Will Forte’s heartfelt statement after seeing the final cut, where he confessed that despite initial doubts, he was blown away by how genuinely good the movie turned out. Director Dave Green also expressed his frustration, pointing out the dedication of the team to honor the Looney Tunes legacy while crafting something uniquely cinematic.

In a surprising twist, Warner Bros. Discovery reversed its decision, allowing the filmmakers to shop the film to other distributors. Ketchup Entertainment eventually acquired the rights in 2025 after a protracted negotiation process, securing a 2026 release. Grégoire Melin’s Kinology was then appointed as the international sales agent, with the film debuting at the Cannes Film Market in 2025, signaling its triumphant return from the brink of obscurity.

Gareth West, CEO of Ketchup Entertainment, described Coyote vs. Acme as more than just a family film: “We’re not just bringing a family film to Cannes — we’re bringing a global event. The performances are sublime, the world-building is extraordinary, and Dave Green has delivered something visually inventive and emotionally satisfying that honors the Looney Tunes legacy.” The film’s inclusion at Cannes reflects its transformation from a shelved project to a celebrated piece of pop culture.

The film’s visual effects, crafted by DNEG and supported by traditional animation from Duncan Studio, seamlessly blend the cartoonish charm of Wile E. Coyote with a vibrant, live-action world. The creative team even coined the term “sketchviz” to describe the unique way animators used hand-drawn poses to shape the digital performances, a technique reminiscent of the film Who Framed Roger Rabbit.

Beyond the spectacle and legal drama, Coyote vs. Acme aims to capture something timeless — the spirit of resilience in the face of overwhelming odds. Much like Wile E. himself, the film’s journey reflects an indomitable spirit, fighting back against corporate setbacks to finally take its rightful place on the big screen. As Cannes attendees gear up for the market screenings, it’s clear that this film is not just a quirky legal comedy but a symbol of creative perseverance. And, just like the endless chase between Coyote and Road Runner, the film’s legacy will undoubtedly endure — a testament to the power of never giving up.

Synopsis : 
An unlucky human lawyer takes on Looney Tunes character Wile E. Coyote as a client. Wile E. wants to sue ACME for defective products. The lawyer soon discovers that his former boss represents the company.

Coyote vs. Acme
Directed by Dave Green
Written by Samy Burch
Story by James Gunn, Jeremy Slater, Samy Burch
Based on Coyote v. Acme by Ian Frazier
Produced by James Gunn, Chris DeFaria
Starring  Will Forte, John Cena, Lana Condor, P. J. Byrne, Tone Bell, Martha Kelly, Eric Bauza
Cinematography : Brandon Trost
Edited by Carsten Kurpanek
Music by Steven Price
Production companies : Warner Bros. Pictures, Warner Bros. Pictures Animation, Two Monkeys, A Goat and Another, Dead, Monkey
Distributed by Ketchup Entertainment (United States)
Release date : 2026