Donald Trump’s latest proposals—reopening Alcatraz and slapping a 100% tariff on films made in “Foreign Lands”—may seem unrelated. However, they oddly complement each other. Some speculate he was inspired to revive the iconic prison after watching Escape from Alcatraz on PBS. Ironically, the film celebrates a convict’s escape from the very place he now wants to reinstate.
If producers filmed Escape from Alcatraz in 2025, they likely wouldn’t shoot in San Francisco. Instead, they would move production overseas. Countries like Bulgaria, New Zealand, and Australia have lured studios with appealing tax incentives. As a result, Los Angeles continues to lose its grip as the epicenter of film production.
FilmLA reported a 30% decline in Los Angeles filming over the past year—and a 50% drop compared to the five-year average. Meanwhile, international destinations continue to roll out red carpets for U.S. studios. For example, Australia offers a 30% federal rebate on big-budget films, plus additional incentives at state levels. Unsurprisingly, producers follow the savings.
Trump’s film tariff plan aims to counter that trend. He posted on Truth Social that the U.S. should impose a 100% tax on any film shot abroad. While he didn’t explain the logistics, the idea is that a $200 million movie would double in cost if released in the U.S. Trump believes this penalty will drive studios back to American soil.
However, this tactic could easily backfire. Other countries aren’t forcing Hollywood to relocate—they’re making it attractive. They offer exotic locations, reduced interference, and a better quality of life for cast and crew. Trump, instead, uses pressure and penalties. His approach feels more like punishment than persuasion.
Working in Los Angeles often means long commutes, high costs, and constant studio oversight. On the other hand, filming in Australia or Bulgaria gives creators more freedom and a relaxed environment. A fake backdrop can replicate any landscape, but you can’t duplicate the joy of working in a scenic, welcoming place.
That joy makes a difference. Performers bring more energy to their roles when they feel comfortable. No amount of set dressing or product can match the natural shine that comes from shooting in a beautiful, low-stress location.
If Trump genuinely wants to restore the U.S. film industry’s dominance, he should improve working conditions here. For example, boosting public transportation would reduce travel fatigue. Lower housing costs would ease financial stress. Investing in infrastructure would create a better ecosystem for creativity.
Los Angeles built itself around the film industry. But as that industry shifts abroad, perhaps LA should reassess its priorities. The city can reclaim some of what it sacrificed by focusing more on its residents and less on placating studios.
Ultimately, Trump’s film tariffs generate attention but ignore deeper problems. Creativity doesn’t bloom under coercion. If America wants to win back film production, it must do more than threaten studios. It must inspire them to return.
