'Bird Barbie' takes on classic horror role

EL SEGUNDO, Calif., Dec. 17 (UPI) -- A new version of the Barbie doll aimed at Alfred Hitchcock fans is hitting U.S. stores in time for Christmas -- "Bird Barbie."

This "Barbie Collector" doll is modeled on Tippi Hedren, star of the 1963 horror classic "The Birds," the New York Post reports. Like Melanie Daniels, Hedren's character in the movie, Barbie is being strafed by birds.

The doll's release was timed to the movie's 45th anniversary.

Mattel Inc. warns that "Bird Barbie" is at least PG-13 rated and not suitable for little girls.

Barbie has had a number of other classic incarnations aimed more at Baby Boomers than their daughters or granddaughters. They include a Marilyn Monroe Barbie, "Twist 'N Turn Barbie" and "Wizard of Oz Dorothy Barbie."