Potential New Home for “Coyote vs. Acme”
EXCLUSIVE: The shelved Warner Bros film Coyote vs. Acme may have found a new opportunity as negotiations for a sale are reportedly underway.
Ketchup Entertainment in Talks for Acquisition
Ketchup Entertainment, led by Gareth West, is in discussions to acquire all rights to the animated/live-action hybrid film for around $50 million. This follows their successful rescue of another Warner Bros project, The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie, last year.
Release Timeline
Although the deal is not yet finalized, it is progressing positively. If negotiations conclude successfully, the film could see a theatrical release in 2026.
A Significant Investment
This deal would represent a major investment for Ketchup Entertainment, which has previously released titles such as Michael Keaton’s Goodrich and Hypnotic featuring Ben Affleck.
Film Details
Coyote vs. Acme is directed by David Green and co-written by Samy Burch, along with James Gunn and Jeremy Slater. It draws inspiration from the Looney Tunes characters and an article by Ian Frazier in the New Yorker. The film stars Will Forte, John Cena, and Lana Condor as it chronicles Wile E. Coyote’s quest to sue Acme after their products consistently fail him in capturing the Roadrunner.
Background on the Project’s Turmoil
Despite good test screenings, the project was shelved two years ago amid Warner Bros’ cost-cutting measures. Initially screened to buyers with a price tag of $70 million, it received no offers. This led to frustration among cast members and directors over the decision to not release the film.
Company Background and Future Plans
Ketchup Entertainment, founded by Gareth West over a decade ago, is less known publically. Recently, the company partnered with Zero Gravity Management to establish a TV division, aiming to create premium series while also distributing content in the U.S. Both Warner Bros and Ketchup have declined to comment on the ongoing negotiations.