Ian Frazier and Samy Burch Discuss 'Coyote vs. Acme' in The New Yorker

The New Yorker has announced a major comedy film project, "Coyote vs. Acme," featuring a screenplay co-written by acclaimed authors Ian Frazier and Samy Burch. The upcoming Warner Bros. Pictures release follows the adventures of Wile E. Coyote as he seeks legal justice against Acme Corporation in a darkly comedic courtroom battle. The film marks a notable collaboration between two prominent literary figures adapting a classic animated character for live-action audiences. Production is set to begin next year in New Mexico, with filming locations including Albuquerque and Santa Fe.

Frazier, known for his sharp wit and extensive work in *The New Yorker*, joins forces with Burch, a rising star in contemporary screenwriting whose credits include *Palm Springs* and *The Disaster Artist*. Their screenplay reimagines the Looney Tunes icon within a satirical legal drama, blending slapstick humor with courtroom intrigue. Warner Bros. Pictures has acquired the rights to the project, signaling strong studio confidence in the comedic potential of the material.

The film’s premise centers on Wile E. Coyote’s attempt to sue Acme Corporation for faulty products that repeatedly fail to capture the Road Runner. This legal battle unfolds in a fictional New Mexico setting, where desert landscapes and small-town courtrooms provide the backdrop for the absurd yet high-stakes conflict. Early reports suggest the tone will balance nostalgia with biting social commentary, appealing to both animation fans and general audiences.

New Mexico’s film industry has seen significant growth in recent years, with state incentives attracting major productions. Albuquerque and Santa Fe offer diverse filming locations, from urban settings to expansive desert vistas. The state’s Film Office confirmed the production will work closely with local crews, supporting regional economic development through job creation and infrastructure investment.

Industry analysts view "Coyote vs. Acme" as a strategic move for Warner Bros., combining a beloved intellectual property with fresh creative talent. The collaboration between Frazier and Burch represents a rare crossover from literary to cinematic storytelling, with expectations high for a script that honors the source material while introducing new thematic depth. The film is scheduled for a theatrical release in 2026, aligning with Warner Bros.’ broader slate of family-friendly and adult-oriented comedies.

As production details emerge, anticipation builds for a film that promises to redefine the legacy of Wile E. Coyote. With filming set to commence in early 2025, fans and critics alike will be watching closely to see how this unexpected adaptation unfolds.

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