Coyote vs. Acme arrived on Premium Video On Demand (PVOD) services on September 29, 2026, following a theatrical run that defied industry expectations and solidified its status as an underdog success story for a film that was once famously slated for a tax write-off.
The film’s digital release follows years of industry drama. Warner Bros. originally shelved the production in 2023, seeking a tax write-off despite the film being completed. However, following significant fan campaigns and industry advocacy, Ketchup Entertainment eventually brokered a deal to rescue the film, leading to its theatrical release on August 28, 2026.
Critical and audience reception has remained overwhelmingly positive. On Rotten Tomatoes, Coyote vs. Acme holds a 96% “Fresh” critics’ score based on 295 reviews. Viewers have mirrored this enthusiasm, resulting in a 94% audience score from more than 2,500 verified ratings. According to Forbes, the film’s transition to home viewing has allowed it to maintain the momentum it built during its summer box office window.
Financially, the film has outperformed the figures associated with its proposed cancellation. While the production budget was later estimated to be closer to $70 million, Coyote vs. Acme concluded its theatrical run with an estimated $110 million global box office haul. The film secured a $15.9 million opening weekend, proving there was a substantial market for the Looney Tunes-inspired legal comedy.
The movie stars Will Forte as Kevin Avery, a down-on-his-luck attorney who represents Wile E. Coyote in a lawsuit against the Acme Corporation. John Cena portrays the film’s antagonist, Buddy Crane, the CEO of Acme. The film remains a PVOD title available for purchase or rental rather than part of a subscription-based streaming service like Apple TV+.
