Obama Commends Sony For Releasing 'The Interview'
President Barack Obama has spoken out in support of Sony Pictures' decision to conduct a limited release of the film "The Interview" despite threats from a cyber-hacking group.
The White House released a statement saying the president applauds Sony Pictures' decision to allow the limited release of the film. The movie is a comedy that follows two journalists as they set out on a mission to assassinate Kim Jong Un, leader of North Korea.
"The president applauds Sony's decision to authorize screenings of the film. As the President made clear, we are a country that believes in free speech, and the right of artistic expression. The decision made by Sony and participating theaters allows people to make their own choices about the film, and we welcome that outcome," the White House said in its statement.
Others, including James Franco and Seth Rogen, stars of the film, have also applauded the production's company's decision to release the film.
"VICTORY!!!!!!! The PEOPLE and THE PRESIDENT have spoken!!! SONY to release THE INTERVIEW in theaters," Franco tweeted on Tuesday.
"CELEBRATING!!!!! "The Interview" starring Seth Rogen and James Flacco saved by President Obacco!" Rogen added.
Sony had temporarily pulled "The Interview" from all theaters after a cyber hacking group calling itself Guardians of Peace threatened a 9/11-style terrorist attack on theaters showing the film.
Sony's decision to release the film comes after the FBI learned that North Korea played a role in the recent Sony hack that resulted in the leak of thousands of emails and personal information.
