The highly anticipated film “Coyote vs. Acme” has officially secured a global theatrical release date, thrilling fans and industry insiders alike. Star Will Forte took the stage at San Diego Comic-Con to announce that this live-action/animation hybrid will hit theaters on August 28, 2026. Enthusiasts were treated to an exclusive look at the film, despite intense meddling from the fictional Acme Corporation.
From the Shelves to the Screen
“Coyote vs. Acme” centers on Wyle E. Coyote’s legal battle against Acme Corporation over its defective products. Initially shelved by Warner Bros. Discovery in 2023 for financial reasons, the movie was set aside after being completed. Originally intended for HBO Max, Warner’s strategic pivot toward theatrical releases under CEO David Zaslav led to several project cancellations, such as “Batgirl” and “Scoob! Holiday Haunt.”
Unlike those projects, this film found a savior in Ketchup Entertainment, which acquired it in March 2025 for approximately $50 million, ensuring its journey to cinemas.
Comic-Con Unveils Exclusive Footage
During the panel, moderator Paul Scheer humorously commented, “This is the panel that you were not supposed to see!” indicating the tumultuous path “Coyote vs. Acme” has traveled. A special clip showcased Wyle E. Coyote reminiscing about the Acme products that led to his failures, set to Johnny Cash’s poignant rendition of “Hurt.”
Tension added a theatrical twist when actor P. J. Byrne, playing an Acme lawyer, interrupted with an over-the-top cease and desist, drawing playful boos from the audience. Unperturbed, Forte and Scheer continued with the presentation.
Behind the Scenes and Beyond
Director Dave Green and voice actor Eric Bauza, who voices numerous Looney Tunes characters, joined the stage alongside co-star Martha Kelly. Fans enjoyed an extended look at a courtroom scene featuring Wyle E. Coyote’s chaotic first day in court, confronting Acme’s formidable legal team led by John Cena’s character, Buddy Crane. The sequence was rich with Looney Tunes charm, with playful nods like a cartoon gavel wielded by Luis Guzmán as the judge.
Viewers can look forward to cameos from beloved characters including Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck, as well as lesser-known figures such as the animated version of Peter Lorre, embraced in this delightful narrative.
“Coyote vs. Acme” is set to deliver humor and nostalgia, blending classic animation with modern storytelling. As the countdown to the August 2026 release begins, fans eagerly anticipate how this blend of live-action and animation will play out on the big screen.
