A LINE of Django Unchained action figures have been quickly swept off the production line after being labelled ‘offensive’ by opponents concerned about the film’s depiction of slavery.
Six eight-inch Django Unchained figurines were on sale on Amazon.com, including three slave characters - Stephen, Broomhilda and Django. But the Weinstein Company, the production firm behind Tarantino’s movie, has confirmed production of the dolls will now be halted with approximately 1,000 figurines being taken off the production line.
Django Unchained has been battered by a tide of criticism over its treatment of slavery in America’s Deep South in the 19th century and its used of the n-word, which appears more than 100 times in the movie. Among the most vocals opponents of the merchandising move was Reverend Al Sharpton’s National Action Network, which called for a national boycott of the range.
‘Selling this doll is highly offensive to our ancestors and the African American community,’ the organisation said.
Quentin Tarantino has defended his movie, saying that it would have been inaccurate if he had ignored the n-word or the grim treatment of slaves, adding that he is pleased that it has generated a debate on the subject. –Metro