Producers Pull 'Django Unchained' Dolls After Controversy
by Shannon KeirnanDespite plenty of award hype, “Django Unchained” is still ruffling feathers with many folks.
The newest controversy over the slave action flick has producers pulling “Django” action figures from shelves.
The eight-inch dolls feature Django, his wife Broomhilda, Shultz, Stephen, Butch, and soulless plantation owner Candie. Producers of the movie made sure it was known that action figures have been produced for all of Quentin Tarantino’s other films, including the blood bath World War II epic “Inglourious Basterds.”
However that still didn’t sit well with everyone. Civil rights leader Al Sharpton, for one. His National Action Network is speaking out against the dolls.
"Selling this doll is highly offensive to our ancestors and the African-American community," said K.W. Tulloss, president of the Los Angeles branch of National Action Network.
"The movie is for adults, but these are action figures that appeal to children," Tulloss added. "We don't want other individuals to utilize them for their entertainment, to make a mockery of slavery."
The dolls were intended for audiences over 17, as is the movie, explained The Weinstein Co.
They released a statement, as well as pulled the dolls from sale at the backlash they sparked.
"We have tremendous respect for the audience and it was never our intent to offend anyone," the production company said.
“Django Unchained” is up for 5 Oscars, and has grossed over $130 million since its December release.
At the announcement that the dolls were being pulled, there was a huge boom in sales. If you’re interested in a collector’s item and have about two hundred dollars to blow, better move quickly.