Benedict Cumberbatch says Sony hack "tragic", studio faces criticism

It's the big budget comedy binned by its studio.

Now Sony Pictures faces a backlash of criticsm for shelving "The Interview" after pressure from hackers who leaked internal emails and movie content.

In Hollywood, Twitter erupted with anger and disbelief at the capitulation to the cyberhackers.

British actor Benedict Cumberbatch added his voice to growing chorus of concern.

SOUNDBITE: Benedict Cumberbatch, actor, saying (English):

"It's worrying of course it's worrying...to see people inhibited by fear of terror as a means of silencing voices, even if they are of dissent or satire, I mean you know it's tragic."

"The Interview" had angered North Korea for its mockery of Kim Jong-Un, the country's leader.

US government sources said the attack was state sponsered and the North Korean government was involved.

Cybersecurity expert Kevin Mitnick, himself a noted hacker, said Sony shouldn't have caved in.

SOUNDBITE: Kevin Mitnick, cyber sec