The Looney Tunes movie "Coyote vs. Acme," famously shelved by Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav for a reported $30 million tax write-off, has finally landed in theaters this weekend. The film's journey to the big screen, after being scrapped in November 2023, has been marked by criticism directed at Zaslav, though he may ultimately benefit from its release.
Ketchup Entertainment acquired the rights to "Coyote vs. Acme" in March for $50 million, a move that has allowed the film to be seen by audiences. While the theatrical release is being celebrated by those involved in its creation, industry observers suggest Zaslav could see a financial return. Projections indicate a soft opening weekend, with estimates between $10 million and $15 million, suggesting the film may struggle to recoup its distribution costs without significant legs at the box office.
The decision to shelve the completed film has drawn sharp criticism from the movie's star, Will Forte. Forte has repeatedly voiced his disappointment, calling the decision "cruel and heartless" and "f–king bulls–t," sentiments that have resonated on social media. The film itself has received strong reviews, with a 96% fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes, and critics have noted the film's troubled release history.
Reviewers have pointed out that "Coyote vs. Acme" was one of a trio of completed projects unceremoniously shelved by Zaslav for tax write-offs. The New Yorker described the movie as "a zany triumph, having escaped, Road Runner-like, Warner’s attempt to cancel it." Other outlets, including The Hollywood Reporter and The Verge, have highlighted how the film's release has been framed as a significant setback for Zaslav's stewardship of Warner Bros. Discovery.
"Coyote vs. Acme," which originated from a 1990 New Yorker essay, is now competing at the box office with "Spider-Man" expected to dominate. Analysts predict the film will vie for second place against other releases. Despite the recognizable Looney Tunes brand, the franchise has faced recent box office challenges, with the "Space Jam" sequel underperforming. Experts note that "Coyote vs. Acme's" current theatrical run is already a victory given its initial shelving.
Zaslav's tenure at Warner Bros. Discovery, which began in 2022, has been characterized by criticism, although he also orchestrated the sale of the studio to Paramount. The film's release this weekend offers a complex narrative, casting Zaslav as a perceived antagonist who may nevertheless emerge financially unscathed.