After refusing initially, Apple on Sunday finally announced Sony Pictures’ controversial film ‘The Interview’ can now be streamed from its iTunes store, four days after the film’s Christmas day release.
“We’re pleased to offer ‘The Interview’ for rental or purchase on the iTunes Store,” Apple spokesman Tom Neumayr said in a statement.
Apple is offering “The Interview” at $6 to rent and $15 to own. The fictional comedy film depicts two broadcast journalists Seth Rogen and James Franco attempting to assassinate North Korean leader Kim Jong-un under the guidance of the CIA.
The Interview’s release was initially cancelled in the wake of apparent threats of violence against theaters showing the movie. The cancellation however received sharp criticism from free speech advocates, including President Barack Obama forcing Sony to release the movie in 331 independent theaters and as a $5.99 video-on-demand (VOD) rental option on YouTube, Google Play and other sites.
Apple was even approached by Sony to stream the movie; however, it showed no interest in Sony’s offer. The latest move now appears to be a reversal in course for the Cupertino.
The controversial movie reportedly earned more than $1 million (U.S) in ticket sales on its release day and also went on to be among the top sellers for YouTube and Google Play. In fact, Sony has announced that “The Interview” has generated around $15 million in online sales since Wednesday, via two million downloads and rentals.
