Sony initially pulled the satirical movie after the movie company’s email accounts were hacked last month and embarrassing missives were made public. The FBI has said North Korea was responsible for hacking Sony’s computer network and stealing nearly 38 million files, which have since appeared on file-sharing websites.
The movie generated mixed reviews from local residents.
“It was just OK, a little bit far fetched, too graphic in some parts for me,” said Georgetta Johnson, of Middletown, who watched the movie with a friend.
Johnson was among about 10 people at the theater’s 12:30 p.m. showing Wednesday. She said she wanted to see the controversial movie because of the media hype surrounding it, and because freedom of expression should never be denied.
“It’s ridiculous if you can’t take a joke,” Johnson said.
“ I could see why some think it’s inappropriate, said Amy King, of Middletown, who watched the movie with her husband and son. “If we had a movie about somebody trying to assassinate President Obama, I think people would be offended.”
Sony’s initial decision not to release the film was widely criticized, with President Barack Obama one of the harshest critics.
Devin Minges, a manager at Danbarry Cinemas in Middletown said, “It’s just a movie. As far as protection or safety risks I’m not too worried, we have usual security … don’t think we’ll have any issues.”
Minges does predict strong ticket sales this weekend for the film.
“The Interview” will also play at Danbarry’s South Dayton and Huber Heights locations beginning Friday. Danbarry Cinemas is an Ohio-based theater chain that operates theaters in Chillicothe, Dayton, Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky.
The Associated Press contributed to this report
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