-
alcohol and tobacco use in commercials – United States
Ok guys, here it is. We are going to be shooting a beer commercial in the coming weeks. There is one scene where the girl in the commercial is going to be smoking a cigar. All throughout the shots there will be a male consuming a beer….
The question is, does this have any serious legal implications. I know for instance that cigarette companies can not advertise in magazines. We all have obviously seen tobacco use in television shows and movies.
The only guideline that our sponsor gave us is that there could be no one in the commercial that is 25 or younger or appear, to be young.
Any thoughts or experiences would be appreciated.
Thanks!
Doug D. -
5 Replies
-
Good question- strongly suggest the client’s legal department find out *before* you shoot.
Noah
-
I’m not offering legal advice here, but ask yourself have you EVER seen anyone actually drink alcohol on a national level commercial in the states? Do you think there might be a reason?
Contact a savvy media lawyer please. -
General consensus in our production department here is that it’s a no-no.
-
I’d definitely suggest shooting with and without to CYA.
Noah
-
You can’t smoke in a commercial, unless it’s not lit. You couldn’t show people drinking, either, but that might have changed. However, I dont’ actually remember SEEING anyone actually taking a drink in any alcohol ad I’ve ver seen on TV.
-E
“Any man’s death diminishes me, because I am involved in mankind, and therefore never send to know for whom the bells tolls; it tolls for thee.”
-John Donne
Reply to this Discussion! Login or Sign Up