Fans of classic animation have reason to celebrate: The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie is still going strong in theaters, with Ketchup Entertainment confirming that the film remains in wide release across more than 2,700 screens this weekend. Even better news? The zany adventures of Porky Pig and Daffy Duck will continue to light up cinemas in the coming weeks, giving audiences plenty of time to catch this historic Looney Tunes feature on the big screen. Released on March 14, The Day the Earth Blew Up marks a significant milestone for the beloved franchise. It’s the first-ever fully animated Looney Tunes movie to receive a theatrical release, bringing the timeless slapstick humor and vibrant hand-drawn animation of these iconic characters to a new generation—while delivering a hefty dose of nostalgia for longtime fans. Produced by Warner Bros. Animation and distributed by indie outfit Ketchup Entertainment, the film has defied the odds to secure its place in theaters after a rocky journey to the screen.
The path to this wide release wasn’t without its share of Looney Tunes-worthy twists and turns. Originally slated as part of Warner Bros. Animation’s lineup for streaming on Max, the film faced uncertainty when it was dropped from the platform’s plans amid a wave of content write-offs. Fortunately, Ketchup Entertainment swooped in to save the day, acquiring the North American distribution rights and ensuring that Porky and Daffy’s big-screen debut wouldn’t be relegated to the cutting room floor. The decision paid off, with the movie now enjoying an extended theatrical run that’s keeping the spirit of classic animation alive. Directed by Pete Browngardt—known for his work on Looney Tunes Cartoons and Uncle Grandpa—The Day the Earth Blew Up is a sci-fi-infused buddy comedy that pairs the ever-optimistic Porky Pig with the perpetually chaotic Daffy Duck. Voiced by the talented Eric Bauza (who channels the legacy of Mel Blanc with uncanny precision), the duo stumbles into an out-of-this-world predicament when they uncover an alien plot to dominate Earth, all tied to a bubblegum factory gone haywire. It’s a premise that blends the absurdity of 1950s B-movie sci-fi with the fast-paced, gag-filled energy that’s defined Looney Tunes for nearly a century.
The supporting cast adds even more flavor to the mix, with Candi Milo as Petunia Pig, Peter MacNicol, Wayne Knight, and Laraine Newman lending their voices to this wild ride. At 91 minutes, the film delivers a tight, laugh-packed adventure that critics have praised for its heartfelt nod to the franchise’s roots. Reviews have called it “one of the funniest movies of the year” (IGN) and a “delightfully manic plea for more 2D animation” (Yahoo), highlighting its blend of humor, heart, and stunning hand-drawn visuals. There’s something undeniably special about watching Porky and Daffy’s antics unfold on a massive screen, surrounded by the laughter of fellow fans. Unlike the hybrid live-action/animation films like Space Jam, this is a pure, unadulterated Looney Tunes experience—crafted with traditional 2D animation techniques that pay homage to the golden age of cartoons. The film’s vibrant colors, exaggerated expressions, and relentless pace are tailor-made for the theatrical setting, where every pratfall and punchline hits with maximum impact.
Plus, there’s an added layer of significance to its release. After the cancellation of other Looney Tunes projects (like the shelved Coyote vs. Acme), The Day the Earth Blew Up stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of these characters—and a reminder of the power of fan support. Posts on X have suggested that the film’s box office performance could pave the way for more Looney Tunes theatrical releases, making every ticket a vote for the future of this storied franchise. Ketchup Entertainment, a small but scrappy indie distributor, has been vocal about its dedication to keeping the film in theaters. Initially, there were concerns that its run might be cut short, with storyboard artist Michael Ruocco noting earlier this week that its fate hinged on ticket sales. But Ketchup quickly clarified that as long as audiences keep showing up, Porky and Daffy will keep the party going. With over 2,700 theaters still screening the movie as of March 19, 2025, it’s clear that there’s an appetite for this brand of animated chaos—and Ketchup is ready to feed it.
For those wondering about the film’s next steps, it’s likely to follow the pattern of Ketchup’s previous releases, such as Goodrich, which hit digital platforms about three and a half months after its theatrical debut. That puts a potential streaming release for The Day the Earth Blew Up sometime in late June or early July. For now, the focus is on the big screen, where this movie truly shines. Whether you’re a lifelong Looney Tunes devotee or a newcomer eager to see what all the fuss is about, The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie is a rare treat. It’s a chance to experience Porky Pig and Daffy Duck in a fresh yet familiar story, brought to life with the kind of craftsmanship that’s become all too rare in modern animation. With its wide release holding strong and Ketchup Entertainment committed to extending its run, there’s no better time to grab some popcorn, head to your local theater, and let these two wacky heroes save the world—one laugh at a time. So, what are you waiting for? Check your local listings, round up your fellow toon enthusiasts, and catch The Day the Earth Blew Up while it’s still blowing up theaters nationwide. That’s all, folks—until the next adventure!
- Tim Allen Shares Exciting Plot Details for Toy Story 5 - April 17, 2025
- The King of Kings Expands to 3,535 Theaters After $19.3M Box Office Opening - April 17, 2025
- The Life of Chuck Trailer Reveals a Genre-Bending Emotional Journey - April 15, 2025
