Coyote vs. Acme Review: When Cartoons Take Corporations to Court

Between their debut in 1949’s ‘Fast and Furry-ous’ and the end of their golden era in 1966 with ‘Sugar and Spies,’ Warner Bros. created 40 animated shorts featuring the Road Runner and Wile E. Coyote. The studio’s attempt to bury their first feature-length film, *Coyote vs. Acme*, for a tax write-off highlights their misunderstanding of its enduring appeal. The film’s success stems from its critique of corporate greed and systemic failure, resonating with audiences through its portrayal of Wile E. Coyote as a relatable underdog. Screenwriter Samy Burch and director Dave Green, along with Ketchup Entertainment, crafted a film that blends humor with heart, celebrating the enduring charm of Looney Tunes while addressing modern themes of corporate malfeasance. Will Forte’s portrayal of Albuquerque cartoon lawyer Kevin Avery—who represents Wile E. Coyote in a small claims court case—adds a layer of authenticity, as Forte’s performance mirrors the film’s blend of slapstick comedy and social commentary. The story begins with the disappearance of Acme Corporation’s researcher, Dr. Lorre, and explores how a desert-dwelling underdog like Coyote can afford the toys he craves, a question rooted in the original comic by Ian Frazier. The film features cameos from iconic Looney Tunes characters, each given depth and context, enhancing its nostalgic appeal. The hybrid live-action/animation format is handled seamlessly, with Forte’s character never questioning the cartoon physics, embodying the film’s core message: the underdog’s struggle against corporate exploitation is timeless. John Cena’s portrayal of Acme’s cutthroat attorney Buddy Crane and Foghorn Leghorn’s role as CEO add layers of humor and tension. The film’s humor is both gut-busting and self-aware, modernizing the Looney Tunes style without losing its original spirit. It highlights the enduring appeal of the underdog narrative, urging viewers to stand against late-stage capitalism. Coyote vs. Acme’s runtime is 103 minutes, with a rating of 3.5 out of 5. The article concludes with publication metadata and a promotional note for The Austin Chronicle’s support.