Film Review Summary: Coyote vs. Acme
Ketchup Entertainment’s Coyote vs. Acme is a genre-blending animation and live-action film that serves as a clever critique of US politics. The story follows Wile E. Coyote teaming up with down-on-his-luck attorney Kevin Avery (Will Forte) to challenge the Acme Corporation, humorously embodied by John Cena’s slick lawyer. Acme, depicted as a massive conglomerate, produces everything from malfunctioning rocket boots to a range of absurd products that curiously perform better for humans than for their cartoon counterparts.
The film draws comparisons to the 1998 classic Who Framed Roger Rabbit, yet maintains a lighter tone. A poignant sequence reveals Coyote’s relentless struggles, echoing existential themes of persistence and addiction to failure. Avery’s plight against Acme highlights issues of complicity in capitalism, with the casting of Foghorn Leghorn as Acme’s CEO reflecting contemporary political figures.
Forte portrays a relatable everyman reminiscent of Jimmy Stewart, as he navigates a corporate world in stark contrast to his humble surroundings. The film is packed with in-jokes and references, showcasing a warm, witty narrative accentuated by political satire. After being shelved by Warner Bros in 2023, the film finds its way to audiences thanks to Ketchup’s rescue, embodying a narrative of the underdogs triumphing against corporate giants. Yet, its closing credits feature The Clash’s ‘I Fought the Law’, hinting at a cynical undercurrent. Coyote vs. Acme is set to light up UK cinemas on August 21.
