Act III, Scene 5: Lights, Camera, Inhale
"As discussed, I guarantee that I will use Brown &
Williamson tobacco products in no less than five feature films. It is my
understanding that Brown & Williamson will pay a fee of $500,000. Hoping
to hear from you soon. Sincerely, Sylvester Stallone."
From a 1983 letter of agreement
in which Stallone pledges to feature B&W products in films such as "Rambo"
and "Rocky IV." 2404.02
Tobacco money has always been spread liberally throughout Congress and state
legislatures, but the industry's attempts to buy influence in Hollywood
are not as well known. B&W and other companies have paid large sums
of money to convince film stars like Sylvester Stallone to smoke a Kool
cigarette on camera or see to it that a company product is clearly visible
in the movie. These "product placements" were a way to promote
cigarettes in films despite the fact the industry is legally allowed to
advertise only in the print media (Associated
Films letter, 6/14/83, 2404.01 ; Stallone
letter, 4/28/93, 2404.02; commentary
by B&W on Marlboro's use in "Apocalypse Now," 12/5/83 ,2403.01
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