Upon release, audiences flocked to see Bay's attempt at capturing the 9/11 tragedy. Several minutes later, many exited theaters worldwide, disgusted at the cinematic spectacle the film had turned the events into. 9/11: The Movie was critically mauled and received low box office income. Flammable Twin Towers-shaped candy, released to promote the film, was banned in almost all US states and Bay received a two-month prison sentence.