Sony cancels theatrical release for The Interview

In the wake of the Sony hacking affair, and terror threats from the anonymous group responsible, the studio has taken the decision to cancel the theatrical release of The Interview.

Having seen a number of key exhibitors decide against screening the film in the wake of opening-day bomb-threats, Sony released the following statement, announcing the studio's decision to pull the release altogether.

"In light of the decision by the majority of our exhibitors not to show the film The Interview, we have decided not to move forward with the planned December 25 theatrical release."

"We respect and understand our partners’ decision and, of course, completely share their paramount interest in the safety of employees and theatregoers."

"Sony Pictures has been the victim of an unprecedented criminal assault against our employees, our customers, and our business. Those who attacked us stole our intellectual property, private emails, and sensitive and proprietary material, and sought to destroy our spirit and our morale – all apparently to thwart the release of a movie they did not like."

"We are deeply saddened at this brazen effort to suppress the distribution of a movie, and in the process do damage to our company, our employees, and the American public. We stand by our filmmakers and their right to free expression and are extremely disappointed by this outcome."

The film stars James Franco and Seth Rogen as a chat-show host and his producer, who are given an assassination mission by the US government when they secure an interview with North Korean dictator, Kim Jong-Un.

At this stage, it remains unclear what the studio plans to do with the film, although it has been suggested that a VOD release may well be a viable alternative.