Mukta Pillai
Viewpoints Editor
On August 28, the film “Coyote vs. Acme” was released in theaters nationwide, including at Wooster’s own Lyric Theater. Based on a satirical New Yorker article written in 1990, the film follows the tumultuous legal dispute between Wile E. Coyote and fictional corporation Acme.
With appearances from various beloved “Looney Tunes” characters like Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck, the film commemorates the classic cartoon through its references and combination of animation and live action.
The film begins with a disheartened and exasperated Coyote, who cannot understand how his innumerable attempts to catch the Road Runner have failed, largely at his own expense. Coyote comes to the conclusion that his failed attempts may have something to do with the conglomerate Acme’s faulty products.
Coyote treks to Albuquerque, New Mexico, where he procures the legal services of Kevin Avery, played by Will Forte, a despondent lawyer who specializes in Acme claims. Along with Avery’s niece Paige Avery, played by Lana Condor, the group finds themselves tangled in a larger hidden plot.
On August 29, I attended the Lyric’s showing of “Coyote vs. Acme”, and was pleasantly surprised by the film. Although the fanbase of “Looney Tunes” is large and varied, I walked into the theater, knowing very little about the characters. I recognized Tweety and Porky Pig and the rest of the characters, but the last time I saw a “Looney Tunes” cartoon was easily 15 years ago. I was pleased by how easy it was to watch the film, which caters to both old and new audiences.
Although “Coyote vs. Acme” is based on the slapstick comedy of “Looney Tunes”, the film showcased a few heartfelt moments. A major theme of the film was the inequality and injustices experienced by animated characters, such as Wile E. Coyote himself.
Tackling themes of capitalism, exploitation and marginalization of communities, the film grounds and convinces the viewers to root for the main characters. I found myself moved to tears at certain points of the film, as the audience witnessed Coyote’s failures and eventual triumphs.
“Coyote vs. Acme” itself did not have any easy journey to its release. Much like Coyote’s own relentless pursuit after the Road Runner, the film’s release seemed like a Sisyphean task.
“Coyote vs Acme” was filmed and in production throughout 2022 and partially into 2023 when it was dropped by Warner Bros. Entertainment in return for a major tax write-off. 2023 saw the release of many major films, such as Greta Gerwig’s “Barbie” and Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer.” “Coyote vs. Acme” was shuffled between different distribution companies, eventually bought by Ketchup Entertainment in early 2025, ceasing the film’s three-year limbo.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed “Coyote vs. Acme” and found it to be a great watch with friends and family. No matter what previous “Looney Tunes” knowledge you come with, this film can cater to you. I hope you all find yourself in a local theater celebrating the simple joys of cartoons and as Road Runner would say, “Beep Beep!”
