NEW YORK ( TheStreet) -- Sony said its controversial movie, The Interview, opened Christmas Day to sold-out viewings, grossing more than $1 million in box office sales as it debuted in more than 300 theaters. The movie was also streamed online and attracted droves of viewers. Many moviegoers said they were championing patriotism and freedom of expression, according to several reports. Must Read: 5 Money Lessons You Can Learn From Watching Your Favorite Holiday Movies "The audience reaction was fantastic -- the limited release, in under 10% of the amount of theaters originally planned, featured numerous sell-outs and a first-day gross over $1 million," said Rory Bruer, Sony Pictures Entertainment president of worldwide distribution in a company statement.