World

North Korea berates Obama over film

December 27, 2014 5:34 pm

North Korea has condemned US President Barack Obama over the release of the film The Interview, about a fictional plot to kill its leader Kim Jong-un.

The National Defence Commission (NDC) also accused the US of shutting down North Korea’s internet – and described Mr Obama as “reckless” and “a monkey”.

Another internet shut-down was observed hours later, Chinese state media said.

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Sony Pictures originally pulled the film after a cyber-attack and threats – a move criticised by Mr Obama.

He joined critics who had warned that freedom of expression was under threat if the movie was shelved.

Sony later reconsidered and released The Interview on Christmas Day.

The controversial film was shown in some US cinemas and is available online, with several hundred independent cinemas coming forward and offering to screen it.

However, larger theatres decided not to show the film.