Oh boy. It may have been inevitable given the news unfolding today that many of the largest cinema chains in America decided to withdraw their support and not show Sony’s The Interview but it still marks a dark day for the movie industry.

When the full extent of the Sony hack became clear, and the slightly surprising gung-ho attitude many bastions of the press had with the juicy details contained therein, the rumours that North Korea were in some way responsible gathered pace. There were official denials (though they praised the ‘righteous deed’ which made their spokesperson sound like a 90s comedy stoner) but the recent focus on Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg’s film makes it clear exactly what the hackers wanted.

And tonight it seems they’ve got it.

Vulture posted the full statement released by Sony a short while ago, it reads:

In light of the decision by the majority of our exhibitors not to show the film The Interview, we have decided not to move forward with the planned December 25 theatrical release. We respect and understand our partners’ decision and, of course, completely share their paramount interest in the safety of employees and theater-goers.

Sony Pictures has been the victim of an unprecedented criminal assault against our employees, our customers, and our business. Those who attacked us stole our intellectual property, private emails, and sensitive and proprietary material, and sought to destroy our spirit and our morale — all apparently to thwart the release of a movie they did not like. We are deeply saddened at this brazen effort to suppress the distribution of a movie, and in the process do damage to our company, our employees, and the American public. We stand by our filmmakers and their right to free expression and are extremely disappointed by this outcome.

It’s a bold step to take, and while we can debate the conspiracy theories already emerging (inside job, amazing marketing etc) one thing is clear – Sony have made their decision and movie history has been made.

Even when placard bashing crowds clamoured outside screenings of Life of Brian or The Last Temptation of Chirst cinemas and studios held their ground. It’s troubling to think of the implications of today’s decision. A decision, hopefully based on unseen information on the real danger and not on the threat to profits.

While Sony debate on what to with The Interview may we present…

Here are interviews about The Interview with the cast,