The imminent DVD release of The Sapphires in the United States has prompted a social media backlash, with campaigners in Australia and America claiming the cover art is sexist and racist.

Home entertainment distributor Anchor Bay plans to release the homegrown hit in the US next week, but has chosen to downplay the significance of the four Aboriginal women at the heart of the story in favour of Irish actor Chris O'Dowd, who plays the drifter who becomes their manager.

The Sapphires

O'Dowd's image is front and centre, in full colour, while the women - played by Deborah Mailman, Jessica Mauboy, Shari Sebbens and Miranda Tapsell - provide a muted blue-toned backdrop.