The highly anticipated “Coyote vs. Acme,” a live action-animation hybrid featuring John Cena, has been pulled from the studio’s release schedule. Despite completing filming in 2022, the film joins the ranks of shelved projects that include the $90 million-budgeted DC adventure “Batgirl” and the kid-friendly “Scoob! Holiday Haunt.” The latter films were deemed tax write-offs by Warner Bros. over a year ago, a decision that sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry.
Originally greenlit by the previous leadership, led by Jason Kilar, and intended for release on HBO Max, these projects, including the $30 million “Coyote vs. Acme,” no longer align with the studio’s current creative direction under the leadership of Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav. The decision to abandon the film also coincides with Bill Damaschke taking over Warner Animation Group earlier this year.
A spokesperson from Warner Bros. Motion Picture Group explained, “With the re-launch of Warner Bros. Pictures Animation in June, the studio has shifted its global strategy to focus on theatrical releases. With this new direction, we have made the difficult decision not to move forward with ‘Coyote vs. Acme.’ We have tremendous respect for the filmmakers, casts, and crew and are grateful for their contributions to the film.”
Directed by Dave Green and produced by DC Studios co-chief James Gunn, who also contributed to the story inspired by the Looney Tunes character, “Coyote vs. Acme” was announced in 2020 and initially scheduled for release on July 21, 2023. However, it was ultimately removed from the calendar, making way for Greta Gerwig’s blockbuster “Barbie.”
Expressing his disappointment, Dave Green, known for directing 2016’s “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows,” shared his feelings on X (formerly known as Twitter), stating, “For three years, I was lucky enough to make a movie about Wile E. Coyote, the most persistent, passionate, and resilient character of all time. I am beyond proud of the final product, and beyond devastated by WB’s decision. But in the spirit of Wile E. Coyote, resilience and persistence win the day.”
With the new management at Warner Bros. Pictures Animation focusing on theatrical releases, the company plans to release two animated films in theaters each year starting in 2026. Currently, they are working on feature-length animated films based on Dr. Seuss classics such as “Cat in the Hat” and “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!” However, given Warner Bros.’ history, one can’t help but wonder if another last-minute tax write-off is on the horizon.
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