Sony Pictures will be screening its controversial film "The Interview" in a limited number of theaters.

Merrick Cinemas plans to show "The Interview," which lampoons a plot to assassinate North Korean leader Kim Jung-un, on Christmas Day.

The Cinema Arts Center in Huntington also plans to show the film pending Sony's approval.

Long Island residents who spoke with News 12 say they are happy with Sony's decision to show the film despite terroristic threats from a hacker group.

Sony CEO Michael Lynton released a statement saying, "We are proud to make it available to the public and to have stood up to those who attempted to suppress free speech."

Last week, President Barack Obama criticized Sony's decision to pull "The Interview." He applauded the change of heart.

"As the president made clear, we are a country that believes in free speech, and the right of artistic expression," said Eric Schultz, White House press secretary. "The decision made by Sony and participating theaters allows people to make their own choices about the film, and we welcome that outcome."