WASHINGTON, December 25 (Sputnik) — The only cinema theatre in Washington, DC playing the controversial comedy The Interview has sold out tickets for the opening two days, the general manager of West End Cinema has told Sputnik.
"We've already sold out just about every show Thursday and Friday. We're trying to add shows to accommodate the demand," Josh Levin said Wednesday.
The theatre, which is the only one in the US capital city showing the film, is planning additional screenings at times when the theatre is usually not doing a lot of business, especially the week of Christmas, Levin added.
The manager of the independent theatre expressed strong support for the release of the movie, stressing that it is crucial in the fight for the freedom of speech.
"I think there's a very important principle that needs to be defended, which is that we will not tolerate bullies interfering with the free exchange of ideas or free speech," Levin said.
Asked if he had concerns for the security of moviegoers, Levin said West End Cinema was treating The Interview "like any other film."
Last week, Sony cancelled the premiere of The Interview, a comedy about a plotted assassination of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, after receiving threats from an anonymous hacker group.
The FBI has said that North Korea was behind the cyber-attack on Sony, but Pyongyang denied the claim.
US President Barack Obama said Sony Pictures Entertainment made a mistake and that the movie should not have been cancelled as foreign powers should not be allowed to impose censorship in the United States.
On Tuesday, Sony decided to let the comedy run in some theatres on Christmas Day.
Google Play, YouTube, and Xbox Video agreed on Wednesday to host The Interview, allowing viewers to purchase or rent the film using their platforms.
