So, many companies will pay millions of dollars to get their product used in a movie.
Can I use a name brand product in a movie without permission? It's not even libel since I won't be saying anything untrue or even derogatory about the product. Just wondering if I need to go get a release or something.

I don't think it matters, unless your going to sell it to someone or put it on T.V.

ya, even then, its highly unlikely they are going to sue u even if you do make money off of it ei. "Super Size Me" It's impossible to make a film that doesnt have accidental product placement whether its an empty coke can or a restaurant sign, i believe they will only actually sue u if u cause them some damage, but the cost of a lawyer will far outweigh the benefits, but it is better to be safe than sorry later just in case

I don't think they can sue you, I think it's like filming in a public place like the streets or such. Because unless you're filming in like large descolate fields or forests, and your actors aren't wearing clothes or stuff, you're gonna have products in the picture, so I don't see how or why they could/would sue

For festivals though it's best to have all that cleared in case they care. The best idea is to create a prop that looks close enough to the name brand's logo and name and just refer to your product, people will get the idea. Jeff Goldblum wears an "I'm a Pepper" Dr. Pepper shirt in Life Aquatic and I'm positive that cost him a couple of bucks.

elliott.

most companies NEVER care about incidental product placement. defaming the company and its image can cause problems

They (As in teachers) say you have to have EVERYTHING cleared. That is really for a big studio picture going to 2,000 theaters and is mostly the studio covering their a$$. For anyone on this site it wont be a problem. And in the real world someone far down the food chain would be taking care of it. So, dont worry about.