What some of these comments seem to be missing is that Sony didn't just cancel the theatrical release, they apparently canceled any release of any kind.
From this NYT article:
"A Sony spokesman said the studio “has no further release plans” for the $44 million comedy."
They buckled to an even more significant degree than is being indicated in these comments. They aren't only trying to avoid safety issues (with regards to a theatrical release), they are also trying to prevent further targeting of their company.
And unless Sony executes one hell of a reversal, I seriously doubt this is a publicity stunt.
From this NYT article:
"A Sony spokesman said the studio “has no further release plans” for the $44 million comedy."
They buckled to an even more significant degree than is being indicated in these comments. They aren't only trying to avoid safety issues (with regards to a theatrical release), they are also trying to prevent further targeting of their company.
And unless Sony executes one hell of a reversal, I seriously doubt this is a publicity stunt.