Independent theaters in Woodridge, Buffalo Grove to show 'The Interview'

WOODRIDGE, Ill. (WLS) -- Sony Pictures says a limited number of theaters will show "The Interview" on Christmas, including some independent theaters in the suburbs.

On Tuesday night, movie-goers had tickets in hand. Mike Bussan plans to see "The Interview" Christmas night at the Hollywood Blvd Cinema in southwest suburban Woodridge.

"As soon as I got my tickets, there were probably maybe 12 more couples behind me buying their tickets, so they're probably going to be sold out all weekend," Bussan said.

Hollywood Blvd is one of a small number of theaters nationwide announcing screenings starting on Christmas. Buffalo Grove Theater, another independent in the north suburbs, is also on that list.

"We're not going to let North Korea decide what our freedoms are as Americans, and we're going to show the film. It's a comedy," said Kim Benjamin, general manager at Buffalo Grove Theater.

"It's really important to me as an American, as somebody who loves this country, that we can't cave in," said Michael Moore, co-owner, Hollywood Blvd Cinema.

Several large theater chains had refused to show the comedy about a plot to assassinate North Korea's leader after computer hackers allegedly tied to North Korea threatened violence at screenings.

"I think they have been put into a very bad political and economic hard spot, and they are trying desperately to get out and put the best face they possibly can on getting their film out to the theaters and saving face," said Dann Gire, Daily Herald film critic.

In a statement, Sony said: "We are proud to make it available to the public and to have stood up to those who attempted to suppress free speech."

Many in Hollywood accused Sony of caving, with the criticism extending to the White House. On Tuesday, President Barack Obama applauded Sony's reversal.

A star of "The Interview", Seth Rogen, tweeted: "The people have spoken! Freedom has prevailed!"

Co-star James Franco said: "Victory!!!!!!! The people and the president have spoken!!!"

In terms of security, the Buffalo Grove Theater plans to have off-duty officers here on Christmas, and Hollywood Blvd Cinema will also have a heightened police presence.

In a statement, the head of Sony Pictures said this limited theatrical opening is just a first step. There are reports there soon could be a video-on-demand release of the film.