With the re-launch of Warner Bros. Pictures Animation in June, the studio has shifted its global strategy to focus on theatrical releases. With this new direction, we have made the difficult decision not to move forward with Coyote vs Acme. We have tremendous respect for the filmmakers, casts, and crew, and are grateful for their contributions to the film.

Why Warner Bros. Keeps Canceling Completed Movies

The Coyote vs. Acme cancelation comes a little over a year after Batgirl was axed. In August 2022, Warner Bros. Discovery sent shockwaves through Hollywood by shelving the $90 million Batgirl movie, in addition to the $40 million animated feature Scoob! Holiday Haunt, which were both completed and intended for release on HBO Max. The newly installed Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav shelved the two titles as part of a strategic shift in favor of theatrical releases, and also to save money with a tax write-off.

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The reasons for canceling Coyote vs. Acme seem to be the same. The movie was greenlit by the previous Warner Bros. leadership in December 2020 and was originally intended for a release on HBO Max which, at the time, was a fledgling streaming service. However, it was later decided that Coyote vs. Acme would get a theatrical release on July 21, 2023, though it was later taken off the calendar for Barbie.

Canceling Coyote vs. Acme seems to be another business decision on the part of Warner Bros. Discovery designed to save money with a tax write-off. However, they remain open to creative collaboration with its director, Dave Green. Gunn and Cena will also continue working together with Warner Bros. on Peacemaker season 2. However, the cancelation remains a disappointing decision for all those involved in Coyote vs. Acme, and all those who were looking forward to seeing it.