Toys 'Ear' Us

Exploring the difference between men and boys, New York City’s recent American International Toy Fair had (surprise!) no shortage of action-figure prototypes from upcoming films. Mark Wahlberg is plasticized for Planet of the Apes, as is Elijah Wood for The Lord of the Rings. But what about those who want a dancing Michael Madsen (right) that can slice off ears? Cue up ”Stuck in the Middle With You.” For adult fans of Quentin Tarantino‘s Reservoir Dogs, Artisan Entertainment has unveiled dolls to mark the R-rated classic’s 10th anniversary in 2002. Seven-inch action figures of the colorful criminal cohorts played by Madsen, Steve Buscemi, Tim Roth, and Harvey Keitel ($10-12 each) will hit novelty stores in April. And this summer, 12-inch-tall versions of Madsen and his abused-cop victim will follow — handsomely accessorized with straight razor, gas can, and radio. ”We’re going back and forth on whether to make the ear detachable,” says Amorette Jones, Artisan’s marketing head. ”It’s a very quirky project.”