Sony Pictures to release 'The Interview' on Christmas Day

Sony Pictures Entertainment has announced to release the political comedy film "The Interview" in limited theatres on Christmas Day, a decision welcomed by the White House.

"While we hope this is only the first step of the film's release, we are proud to make it available to the public and to have stood up to those who attempted to suppress free speech", said Michael Lynton, CEO of Sony Pictures Entertainment.

Sony had last week cancelled the scheduled release of the movies after threats from the cyber world, which the US says is from North Korea.

Several movie theatres refused to screen the movie because of the threat. This was termed as a mistake by President Barack Obama.

By last evening some 200 theatres had agreed to screen the movie, following which Sony said that the film would be released in limited theatres on Christmas.

The movie is a comedy that depicts the assassination of the North Korean authoritarian leader, Kim Jong Un.

The President applauds Sony's decision to authorise 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 White House said in a statement.

"The decision made by Sony and participating theatres allows people to make their own choices about the film, and we welcome that outcome", the White House said.

(PTI)