Controversial film, 'The Interview' starring Seth Rogen and James Franco makes an impressive $15 million in online sales since it was released on Christmas day.
Following Sony Picture's backtracking on their decision to completely pull the plug on the film, the studio opted to instead push through with a limited theatrical release via independent theaters and an online premiere via YouTube Movies, Microsoft's Xbox Video and Google Play.
Beginning Christmas day, the film was available for rent or purchase online and has been downloaded more than 2 million times. It currently ranks as Sony's leading online movie launch.
The movie was simultaneously launched across 330 theaters in the United States, which makes up less than ten percent of the total number of theatres, which the film was originally slated for. Despite the limited release 'The Interview' raked in $2.8M in four days
Star and producer, Rogen surprised movie-goers who went out to see the film on its opening day and released a statement expressing his gratitude for the public's support:
"I'm so grateful that the movie found its way into theaters, and I'm thrilled that people actually went out and saw it," Rogen said. "The fact that people actually left their houses when they had the option of staying home is amazing."