Initially, Sony made the decision to retract the release after many theaters opted to not show the film because of security concerns.
According to the Washington Times’ website, a petition initiated by 532 maverick members of the “independent art house community” — smaller, independent movie theaters — are to thank that the controversial comedy “The Interview” will now be showing in theaters this Thursday. The petitions states, “We stand in solidarity with Sony and offer our support to them in defense of artistic integrity and personal freedoms; freedoms which represent our nation’s great ability to effect change and embrace diversity of opinion.”
For these mavericks freedom is important. They will not allow such threats to hinder their right to freedom of speech. They understand though there are risks involved in screening ‘The Interview” and will discuss these concerns to their employees and customers.
Sony has gained much flack for their initial decision to cancel the release of the movie. President Barrack Obama even displayed his disapproval of Sony’s move to delay the movie, saying last Friday that it “made a mistake” for succumbing to intimidation.
The studio though said it had never given up on releasing the film and are optimistic about the upcoming openings in the theaters.