‘The Interview’ to Get Theatrical and VOD Release

Seth Rogen and James Franco’s The Interview, which the film’s Christmas release was pulled from theaters after threats were made by North Korea due to the Sony hack, will now get a limited release via video on demand and at select theaters.

Sony released a statement Tuesday morning saying the studio is moving forward with plans to release the film simultaneously in participating theaters and via video on demand.

“We have never given up on releasing ‘The Interview’ and we’re excited our movie will be in a number of theaters on Christmas Day,” said Michael Lynton, chairman and CEO of Sony Entertainment.

Participating theaters have confirmed the limited release of The Interview on Christmas day after Sony’s announcement Tuesday morning. Select theaters include, The Plaza Theater in Atlanta, the MX Theaters in St. Louis and the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema in Dallas/Fort Worth. Alamo Drafthouse in Dallas/Fort Worth tweeted: “See the movie North Korea really, REALLY doesn’t want you to see….this time for realsies.” The MX theater will sell tickets for the film starting Tuesday at 2 p.m CT.

Sony attempted to distribute the film via VOD with Dish Network, but an agreement couldn’t be made. As for now, Sony has not announced what platforms will be supporting the VOD Christmas release of The Interview. Sony is currently in the process of securing more theaters and platforms so that the film reaches the largest possible audience.

President Barack Obama applauded Sony’s decision to release the canceled comedy. Seth Rogen tweeted his excitement for Sony’s decision by saying: “The people have spoken! Freedom has prevailed! Sony didn’t give up!”