Stars react to ‘Interview’ X’mas release

Actors Seth Rogen, right, and James Franco attend the premiere of the Sony Pictures’ film “The Interview” in Los Angeles.Sony Pictures Entertainment announced Tuesday a limited theatrical release of “The Interview” beginning Thursday, putting back into the theaters the comedy that prompted an international incident with North Korea and outrage over its cancelled release. Sony Entertainment CEO Michael Lynton said Tuesday that Seth Rogen’s North Korea farce “will be in a number of theaters on Christmas Day.” He said Sony also is continuing its efforts to release the film on more platforms and in more theaters. (Photo by Dan Steinberg/Invision/AP, File)

LOS ANGELES — Celebrities and others react to Sony’s announcement Tuesday that it will release Seth Rogen and James Franco’s embattled North Korean satire, “The Interview,” in some theaters on Christmas:

— “The people have spoken! Freedom has prevailed! Sony didn’t give up! The Interview will be shown at theaters willing to play it on Xmas day!” — Rogen on Twitter.

— “VICTORY!!!!!!! The PEOPLE and THE PRESIDENT have spoken!!! SONY to release THE INTERVIEW in theaters on XMAS DAY! CELEBRATING!!!!! “The Interview” starring Seth Rogen and James Flacco saved by President Obacco! I MEAN PRESIDENT OBAMA!!!!! Sorry!!!” — Franco on Instagram.

— “Thanks to everyone who didn’t give up on our movie! @Sethrogen & I are humbled & overwhelmed by your support. Hope you enjoy the film!” — “The Interview” co-writer-director, Evan Goldberg, on Twitter.

— “Can’t wait for Ben Affleck’s film about the making, marketing and release of “The Interview.” #OscarWatch2019″ — “Night at the Museum” director Shawn Levy on Twitter.

— “…Just as I hoped, indie movie theaters step up. Good!” — Salman Rushdie on Twitter.

— “We are proud to make it available to the public and to have stood up to those who attempted to suppress free speech.” — Sony Entertainment chief Michael Lynton in a statement.

— “”The Interview” to screen Xmas day in Austin & Atlanta. So our free speech is finally safe again. Glad that’s over. #Sony” — Actor Harry Shearer on Twitter.

— “This is the best Christmas gift anyone could give us. We, both distributors and exhibitors, have collectively stood firm to our principles and for the right to freedom of expression. Two days til Christmas, and I am proud to be an American.” — Tim League, chief of Alamo Drafthouse Cinema theaters in a statement.

— “Glad to see @JamesFrancoTV and @Sethrogen happy and plugged in again. Welcome back guys, we missed you! #TheInterview” — Rob Lowe on Twitter.