Coyote vs. Acme
Scott Snyder’s Absolute Looney Tunes, anyone?
Coyote vs. Acme lives! Take that, capitalism!
Indulge me.
In my cinema there was a couple behind having the time of their lives with this film, which is all you can ask for. Glad to say I had a great time too – it’s fun, funny, and surprisingly radical. I’m not kidding – in the immediate aftermath of the verdict, the film implies that the pre-existing systems of justice are inherently ineffective, and that therefore the only method of achieving true justice is actively violent (and highly comedic) action. I know everyone’s already said it, but no wonder the big evil corporation tried to bury this. Using the seal of the U.S. senate as part of the gag is the cherry on top.
Glad to say that outside of the triumph over David Zaslav, the film still succeeds on its own terms too.
My favourite aspect is the film’s dedication to Fraction & Zdarsky-esque cramming every frame with as many jokes as possible – a big joke will be happening up front, but if you watch the background you’ll see there are three other jokes going on, all of them hilarious. It makes for a great ride – the filmmakers want you to feel things, sure, but they also want you to laugh at every opportunity. I appreciate that kind of dedication in a comedy film, especially nowadays. That, and featuring the greatest possible needledrop over the credits. Put a big smile on my face.
Surprisingly, there’s a moving emotional core to be found. Not just with the “are you coming back?” moment towards the end, but of perseverance all throughout. Yes, it’s about fighting back no matter what against the relentless, enormous, boot of capitalism jammed up our arses, but on a more personal level of not giving up on yourself or others. It works well for children (don’t give up!), and for adults (stick it to the man!). I’ve often thought nowadays films are either only for younger viewers, or only for older viewers – they’re either simple and fun, or edgy and dark with no in-between. Then along comes Coyote vs. Acme like the Road Runner, providing something for everyone – it’s refreshing. Will Forte is great here, embodying the perseverance theme while Wile E. Coyote (seamlessly integrated with the real world too) is off on his hijinks.
Saw something recently comparing this version of Foghorn Leghorn to Absolute Universe Hawkman and I say, I say, I can’t unsee it. Both introduced in the 1940s, both blowhards, both bird-themed…