The film by Sony has received global attention for its subject matter, North Korea.
A North Korean defector wishes to destroy the image North Koreans have of Kim Jong Un. The defector turned activist is Park Sang Hak, and he plans to drop 100,000 copies of “The Interview” into North Korea to disillusion the views towards the supreme leader.
Park intends to fly over the 100,000 movies via balloon. DVDs as well as USB flash drives containing the digital film will be flown over at various times starting from late January, but most of them will be flown over in March because of favorable wind conditions. The Associated Press reports that Park will be adhering to this schedule with the help of a non-profit organization called the Human Rights Foundation, which is based in the United States.
The Human Rights Foundation will supply and fund the supply of “The Interview”, which will be flown over to South Korea from the United States in the middle of January. Park believes that the recent film will help deteriorate the North Korean regime because of its humorous portrayal of Kim Jong Un.
“North Korea's absolute leadership will crumble if the idolization of leader Kim breaks down,” Park told AP.
Park’s plans, if executed, have the potential of creating greater tension between North and South Korea, as well as violent retaliation by the Northern neighbor. Further, it is doubtful that the tactic will be effective because of the alleged inability of most North Koreans to watch media across such platforms as DVD and USB. In addition, fear of punishment for watching anti-government propaganda may deter most North Koreans from watching the film, even if they have the means.
Despite the possible repercussions, the South Korean government has done nothing to stop Park’s ambition. The government states that it will not hinder the plans because of the freedom of speech in the country.
“The Interview” has caused significant controversy over the past month. Cyber threats and attacks on Sony developed into terrorist threats on American movie theaters. The movie continues to draw attention as it is reaches beyond the realm of entertainment.
