What's happened
After being shelved by Warner Bros. in 2023, the Looney Tunes film 'Coyote vs Acme' has been acquired by Ketchup Entertainment for worldwide distribution. The film, featuring John Cena and Will Forte, is set for a theatrical release in 2026, reviving interest in a project previously abandoned as part of a tax write-off.
What's behind the headline?
Overview
The revival of 'Coyote vs Acme' highlights the shifting dynamics in the film industry, particularly regarding how studios manage completed projects.
Key Points
- Tax Write-Offs: Warner Bros. opted for tax write-offs over releasing completed films, a move that has drawn criticism from industry insiders and fans alike.
- Market Demand: The acquisition by Ketchup Entertainment suggests a strong market demand for nostalgic content, especially with beloved characters like Wile E. Coyote.
- Future Implications: This deal may encourage other studios to reconsider shelved projects, potentially leading to a resurgence of previously abandoned films.
Conclusion
The decision to revive 'Coyote vs Acme' could set a precedent for how studios approach completed films in the future, balancing financial strategies with audience expectations.
What the papers say
According to Sian Cain in The Guardian, Ketchup Entertainment's acquisition of 'Coyote vs Acme' is a significant move, as it revives a project that was previously deemed too risky by Warner Bros. Cain notes that the film had received positive test screenings, with Oscar-winning filmmakers praising its charm and humor. Meanwhile, AP News emphasizes the film's potential to blend nostalgia with modern storytelling, highlighting the excitement from Ketchup's CEO, Gareth West, about bringing the film to audiences. The Independent echoes these sentiments, reinforcing the film's appeal and the backlash against Warner Bros.' earlier decision to shelve it.
How we got here
The film was completed in 2023 but was shelved by Warner Bros. as part of a tax strategy following leadership changes. This decision faced backlash from fans and creatives, especially after other projects like 'Batgirl' were also abandoned.
Go deeper
- What led to the film being shelved?
- How did Ketchup Entertainment come to acquire the film?
- What are the expectations for its release?
Common question
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What Led to the Revival of 'Coyote vs Acme'?
The revival of 'Coyote vs Acme' has sparked significant interest in the film industry, especially after its initial shelving by Warner Bros. in 2023. With Ketchup Entertainment stepping in for worldwide distribution, many are curious about the reasons behind this decision and what it means for the future of animated films. Below, we explore key questions surrounding this exciting development.
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What Are the Latest Trends in Animated Films?
Animated films are evolving rapidly, with new trends shaping the industry and captivating audiences of all ages. As we look ahead, films like 'Coyote vs Acme' are set to redefine animation, blending nostalgia with modern storytelling. Here are some common questions about the current landscape of animated films and what to expect in the near future.
More on these topics
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The United States of America, commonly known as the United States or America, is a country mostly located in central North America, between Canada and Mexico.
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Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc., is an American diversified multinational mass media and entertainment conglomerate headquartered at the Warner Bros.
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John Felix Anthony Cena Jr. is an American professional wrestler, actor, rapper, and television presenter. He is currently signed to the WWE on a part-time deal, is the current host of Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader?
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Orville Willis Forte IV is an American actor, comedian, screenwriter and producer. He is best known for being a cast member on Saturday Night Live and for creating and starring in the sitcom The Last Man on Earth.