Overview
- Warner Bros. Discovery shelved the finished film in 2023 as a tax write-off under CEO David Zaslav, a decision widely reported and criticized.
- Independent distributor Ketchup Entertainment bought worldwide rights in 2025 for a reported $50 million and is handling the August 28 theatrical release.
- Early August critic screenings have been strongly positive, with reports of about a 95% Rotten Tomatoes score, making opening-week box office results the next critical milestone.
- The movie is an adaptation of Ian Frazier’s 1990 New Yorker piece, written by James Gunn, Jeremy Slater and Samy Burch, directed by Dave Green, and stars Will Forte, John Cena and Lana Condor; reviewers praise its live-action/animation blend and Looney Tunes spirit.
- A fan campaign and bold out‑of‑home stunts have amplified interest, and industry observers say the film’s commercial performance could influence how studios handle completed projects and legacy IP going forward.