‘Interview’ earns $1M from 131 locations

Associated Press

LOS ANGELES

“The Interview” was never supposed to be a paradigm-shifting film. But unusual doesn’t even begin to describe the series of events that transpired over the past few weeks, culminating in the truly unprecedented move by a major studio to release a film in theaters and on digital platforms simultaneously.

Sony is in uncharted waters now with the film, which earned $1.04 million from 331 locations Thursday, according to studio estimates, in addition to the untold VOD grosses.

“Considering the incredibly challenging circumstances, we are extremely grateful to the people all over the country who came out to experience ‘The Interview’ on the first day of its unconventional release,” said Rory Bruer, president of worldwide distribution for Sony Pictures in a statement.

While a $3,142 per-theater average and sold-out showings when audiences had the option to watch the film from the comfort of their own homes is nothing to scoff at, analysts agree that it probably doesn’t signal the beginning of a significant change in how Hollywood does business.

Day-and-date releases are nothing new. Independent distributors have embraced this strategy for years. But those are generally small films with even smaller budgets — ones that can’t afford a more traditional, widespread marketing campaign.

For the major studios, it’s never really been an option.