Chicago – October 04, 2025
George Clooney criticized former President Trump’s proposal to impose 100% tariffs on films made overseas, saying that it’s the wrong tool to fix the problem.
Clooney acknowledged that movie production is indeed moving out of California, but he blamed it on the lack of strong federal incentives.
He suggested a federal incentive program that would match the kinds of tax credits states like New York, Louisiana, and New Jersey offer to keep productions in the U.S.
Clooney’s argument is that incentives (i.e. “carrots”) are more effective than tariffs (“sticks”) in encouraging investment in domestic production.
Clooney’s position seems more sustainable and pragmatic than tariffs. Tariffs are a blunt instrument that might do as much harm as good, especially in a creative, internationally integrated sector like film. Incentives allow precision: target the kind of productions you want, manage the budget, and encourage growth rather than force it.
If the idea gains traction, we might see legislative proposals for a federal film tax credit (or rebate program). In fact, there have already been suggestions from parties (e.g. from California Governor Newsom) to create a federal-level program to complement state incentives.
