Donald Trump is bringing his tariff crusade to the cinema. The former president has announced a 100% tax on all movies produced outside the U.S., framing it as a rescue mission for what he calls America’s “dying” film industry.
In a Truth Social rant, Trump accused foreign nations of waging economic warfare against Hollywood by luring productions overseas. He authorized immediate action, declaring the trend a threat to national security. “WE WANT MOVIES MADE IN AMERICA, AGAIN!” he proclaimed.
The move escalates tensions with China, which recently cut American film imports in response to Trump’s earlier tariffs. While the policy aims to reshore movie production, it leaves major questions unanswered—particularly for streaming platforms that film globally. With Hollywood icons like Mel Gibson now serving as Trump’s industry ambassadors, the administration is betting big on cinematic nationalism. But whether audiences will tolerate pricier foreign films—or fewer choices—remains to be seen.
