In 2016,
The Hollywood Reporter investigated the use of five bison carcasses on the set of the Jeff Robinov movie
Alpha (then titled
The Solutrean). There are allegations that the wrangler responsible for obtaining the carcasses (John Scott) had them slaughtered and skinned for the purpose of filming, which is prohibited by the American Humane Association.
Scott's been linked to controversy before, including a horse's death during the production of
The 13th Warrior (1999) and selling horses used on Canadian TV series
Heartland to Bouvry Exports, a slaughterhouse known for its inhumane practices. He did not comment on any of these situations specifically, but statements include: “I have the right to do with my bison whatever I want to do" and "I take my horses to horse sales, and I can't help where they go from there."
Though others from the film claim the bison were not slaughtered specifically for the project, questions remain. PETA Senior VP Lisa Lange calls for audiences to boycott the film and says, "Five sensitive bison lost their lives, all so that their bodies could be used as props in this wholly forgettable flick."
Alpha opens Friday in North America.
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