The film Coyote vs. Acme premiered in Los Angeles on Thursday, August 27, 2026, marking a significant moment for a project that faced an uncertain future. The movie, a hybrid live-action and animation feature set in the Looney Tunes universe, sees Wile E. Coyote pursuing legal action against the Acme Corporation due to its consistently failing products. Will Forte stars as Coyote’s inexperienced lawyer, with John Cena portraying Acme’s attorney.
The film’s release comes after a period of considerable doubt, as Warner Bros. Discovery initially shelved the project in November 2023 for a tax write-off. However, a strong fan movement rallied to save the film, leading to Ketchup Entertainment acquiring it in March 2025 and setting it for a summer 2026 theatrical debut.
Will Forte described the journey as an emotional roller coaster, expressing surprise that the online support ultimately led to the film’s revival. He acknowledged the fans’ persistence, stating that their efforts were instrumental in bringing the movie to theaters. Forte noted the positive reviews and audience buzz surrounding the film, finding it validating after feeling gaslit during the period of uncertainty.
Comparing the film’s struggle to Wile E. Coyote’s battle against a large corporation, Forte emphasized its underdog status and the need for continued support. John Cena echoed this sentiment, encouraging those who advocated for the film to now see it in theaters. The premiere event itself highlighted this appreciation for fans, featuring a costumed Wile E. Coyote character marching with the UCLA band, carrying signs referencing viral fan support, including one that read Absolute Cinema.
Director Dave Green expressed gratitude for every individual who spoke out and tweeted in support of the film. He stated that the team made a movie they found funny and enjoyable, and it is validating to see the audience respond positively. The film, which also features Lana Condor, Eric Bauza, and Martha Kelly, is scheduled to open in theaters on Friday.
