Ian Frazier and Samy Burch on “Coyote vs. Acme”
Summary
Host David Remnick explores the journey of Ian Frazier’s 1990 New Yorker essay, "Coyote v. ACME," which inspired the satirical film Coyote vs. ACME. Frazier speaks with screenwriter Sammy Burch about adapting the legal parody, the movie’s controversial shelving, and its eventual release. The episode highlights the blend of cartoon logic and legal thriller tropes that defines the project.
Topics discussed
Sponsors and introduction to the episode
Ian Fraser's 1990 New Yorker essay on Wile E. Coyote
The humor and inspiration behind the legal satire
The production history and shelving of Coyote vs. Acme
Sammy Burch and Ian Fraser discuss the film's release
Practical effects and the appeal of cartoon violence
Screenwriting techniques for animated sequences
Commercial breaks and sponsor messages
Developing the script during the pandemic
Adapting Looney Tunes characters for a legal thriller
Peter Lorrie's role and Ian Fraser's surprise at filming
Closing remarks and credits
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