Los Angeles, CA – February 9, 2024 – In a development that has stunned fans and raised concerns within the industry, Warner Bros. has reportedly decided to permanently shelve the completed film “Coyote vs. Acme.” This news comes just months after the studio initially cancelled the animated/live-action hybrid in November 2023, sparking public outcry and a reversal of that decision.
According to a damning report by TheWrap, Warner Bros. executives, including CEO David Zaslav, never watched the full movie before deciding to shelve it again. This revelation adds fuel to the fire of criticism already aimed at the studio’s handling of the project and its apparent prioritization of financial considerations over artistic merit.
The report further details that studio heads Abdy and De Luca did see the director’s cut, while Warner Bros. sought a hefty $75-$80 million asking price from potential buyers, refusing negotiations. Despite interest from streaming services and even a theatrical release possibility from Paramount, talks reportedly fell apart due to the rigid asking price.
This newest development echoes Warner Bros.’s controversial cancellations of “Batgirl” and “Scoob! Holiday Haunt” in 2022, both near completion before being scrapped. While “Coyote vs. Acme” briefly saw a glimmer of hope when offered to other platforms, its ultimate shelving raises disturbing questions about the studio’s direction and its relationship with filmmakers.
Industry experts fear this incident could further erode trust between creators and Warner Bros., with filmmakers hesitant to commit projects if they face the risk of cancellation for solely financial reasons. The report also points out a perceived shift in the studio’s focus, prioritizing business strategies over artistic considerations, potentially jeopardizing its creative output and long-term success.
While the fate of “Coyote vs. Acme” remains sealed, its story has ignited discussions about transparency, responsible decision-making within studios, and the importance of valuing artistic merit alongside financial considerations. Whether this serves as a wake-up call for Warner Bros. or further strains its relationship with the creative community remains to be seen. However, one thing is clear: the shelving of “Coyote vs. Acme” leaves a dark mark on the studio’s recent history and raises concerns about its future trajectory.