AceShowbiz -

Paul Thomas Anderson blasted American Airlines at the 30th annual Indie Spirit Awards Saturday, February 21. The helmer called out AA which became the sponsor of the ceremony on stage while collecting a trophy for Robert Altman Award.

"Don't fly American Airlines. They will f***ing lose your luggage," said Anderson who wore casual jeans and a flannel shirt to the prize-giving event. "It happened to me. Seriously," the "Inherent Vice" director added before walking off the stage.

Later when "Foxcatcher" helmer Bennett Miller took the stage to accept Special Distinction Award, he seemingly tried to play down Anderson's stunt by offering an apology on his behalf. Miller said, "I said some bad things, I feel bad, I was trying to exhibit my independent spirit, and I thought if I wore a flannel shirt and said a bad word, you would love me more. My apologies to American Airlines. It was actually United."

Anderson hasn't said anything to explain his onstage rant after the show, but AA claims he was just joking. "He came into our booth and apologized and said he was trying to make a joke and that he was sorry it was misinterpreted," the company's rep tells The Hollywood Reporter. "We just congratulate him on his award and we're glad he is all set with American Airlines."