Posted on 28th Nov 2011 @ 9:34 AM

E cigarettes could soon set Hollywood alight if law changes make it impossible to show actors smoking cigarettes on the big screen.

The proposed rules would only affect films deemed appropriate to be watched by Under 18s.

It comes after a study revealed teenagers are more likely to smoke after watching movies which glamorise the habit.

The UK Centre for Tobacco Control Studies has called on the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) and the Government to review their policies on film classification, arguing that under-18s need to be protected from potentially harmful imagery.

Speaking to The Press Association Dr Andrea Waylen, who led the medical research, said: "More than half the films shown in the UK that contain smoking are rated UK15 or below, so children and young teenagers are clearly exposed.”

If the recommendations went ahead e cigarettes could easily step into the breach.

Each electronic cigarette comprises of a battery, an atomiser and also a cartridge chamber that contains a small quantity of nicotine and water.

When drawing on an e-cigarette many smokers claim the cravings are alleviated due to the 'traditional' taste of tobacco from the smoke like vapour that is emitted, the actual holding of the e cig the simulated glow of a traditional cigarette and the intake of nicotine provided.

Therefore, if movie directors felt the role required a cigarette – e cigs could do the job.

The devices have already been spotted in the romantic thriller The Tourist. Chester based Smart Smoker supplied the e cigarette for Johnny Depp’s character, Frank Tupelo.

Maybe an e cig could be coming to a cinema near you soon.