Microsoft is now offering the controversial—and ridiculous—movie "The Interview" via its Xbox Video service for both rent and purchase, as is Google via YouTube and Google Play. The move comes after Sony Pictures halted a planned Christmas Day theatrical release of the film because of a cyber-attack and threats against movie-goers.
"In the United States, freedom of expression is a fundamental principle that is protected by law," Microsoft general counsel Brad Smith explains. "Our Constitution guarantees for each person the right to decide what books to read, what movies to watch, and even what games to play. In the 21st Century, there is no more important place for that right to be exercised than on the Internet. After substantial thought, we decided to stand up with Sony and work with others to ensure that freedom of expression triumphs over cyber-terrorism."
If you're interested in watching this turd on Xbox Video for some reason, there are some caveats. First, the film is available only in the United States. And second, you would have to actually watch "The Interview."
If you passed through those questions without pausing, the movie is available to buy or rent on the Xbox Video app on Xbox One, Xbox 360, Windows 8, Windows Phone 8 and XboxVideo.com. You could also watch it on Sony's web site, www.seetheinterview.com, which, let's face it, doesn't seem all that safe given the recent hack. Or you can buy or rent it from Google Play (most Android devices, iPhone or iPad, Chromecast, Roku or Nexus Player) or YouTube (web, Chromecast, Apple TV, PlayStation and Xbox).
"I want to thank Google and Microsoft for helping make this a reality," Sony Entertainment chairman and CEO Michael Lynton said. "This release represents our commitment to our filmmakers and free speech. While we couldn’t have predicted the road this movie traveled to get to this moment, I'm proud our fight was not for nothing and that cyber criminals were not able to silence us."
It's just too bad this whole thing wasn't about a more important movie.
