Anheuser-Busch has asked Paramount Pictures to remove (or obscure) images of its Budweiser® brand beer from the film “Flight,” starring Denzel Washington as a hero pilot accused of imbibing in excess before a plane crash.

In a written statement, Robert McCarthy, Budweiser’s Vice President said, “We would never condone the misuse of our products, and have a long history of promoting responsible drinking and preventing drunk driving. It is disappointing that Image Movers, the production company, and Paramount chose to use one of our brands in this manner.”

Of course, the fact that Budweiser would “never condone” misuse of alcohol, the stark reality is that people do abuse alcohol.  While Budweiser may be less cooperative with Paramount pictures in future products, we think it is unlikely that Budweiser will be able to legally prevent the appearance of Budweiser in the film.