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Sony cancels release of Seth Rogen, James Franco comedy 'The Interview' due to North Korea threats

Posted at 3:19 PM, Dec 17, 2014
and last updated 2014-12-17 19:01:33-05

Sony Pictures canceled the Dec. 25 release of the Seth Rogen and James Franco comedy "The Interview" after it said a majority of theaters chose not to show the film.

“We are deeply saddened at this brazen effort to suppress the distribution of a movie,” Sony Pictures said in a statement. “We stand by our filmmakers and their right to free expression and are extremely disappointed by this outcome.”

"The Interview" is a comedy about assassinating North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. 

Sony was targeted by hackers who leaked sensitive data and threatened movie theaters that show the film. Law enforcement confirmed to CNN that the hackers, who call themselves the "Guardians of Peace," are from North Korea. 

Rogen and Franco have canceled all media appearances due to the threats. The New York City premiere was also canceled. Some Sony employees sued the company for not protecting their personal data.

The threats against Sony may claim another North Korea based movie. The Wrap reports that the thriller "Pyongyang" starring Steve Carell has been canceled. It was due to enter production in March.

Find out more and see movie clips in this Newsy video:

Gavin Stern is a national digital producer for the Scripps National Desk. Follow him on twitter at @GavinStern.