Placing the Product in the Dialogue, Too

Doreen Carvajal writes:  "... But before Europe decides whether to loosen a patchwork of national regulations essentially barring the practice [of product placement], it may do well to heed some of the American critics whose voices are growing more strident with the increasing emergence of products in plot.  ¶  The Writers Guild of America, West, a union representing writers in the movie and broadcast industry, has been particularly vociferous in denouncing the practice.  ¶  The union issued a report in November on the topic and demanded a code of conduct for producers that requires the disclosure of advertising deals through clear disclaimers at the start of programs. Failing that, they say, they will seek increased federal regulation to prevent what they call subliminal, stealth ads.  ..."  Link:  New York Times.