Sony decision not to release ‘The Interview’ draws backlash
Critics say the company is caving to pressure from terrorists; others say it’s the right decision. (Updated)
Sony Pictures has pulled “The Interview” from release in the wake of one of the largest corporate data hacks in history. As of Thursday morning, Sony says it doesn’t have any plans to release the film on any platform. Some prominent filmmakers and other critics aren’t happy with the decision.
The controversial flick starring James Franco as a bumbling journalist sent to assassinate North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Seth Rogen as his goofball producer is thought to have inspired the hack. The group calling itself Guardians of Peace invoked Sept. 11 and threatened violence against moviegoers on Christmas. U.S. intelligence officials announced Wednesday that North Korea was involved in the cyber attack.
The attack, which included threats of 9/11-style attacks on movie theaters, prompted major cinema chains including Regal Entertainment, AMC Entertainment, Cinemark, Carmike Cinemas and Cineplex Entertainment to pull the movie.
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