The Story Trump goes to Hollywood
May 25, 2025
Join Ed Potton, Commissioning Editor at The Times, and Hadley Freeman, a columnist for The Sunday Times, as they delve into Trump’s controversial proposal for tariffs on foreign films. They discuss the potential repercussions for Hollywood and the UK film industry, exploring whether this move is a strategic revival tactic or just another attack in Trump’s culture war. The conversation also touches on Hollywood's connection to outdated masculinity, the evolution of the film landscape, and the impact of political forces on celebrity activism.
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Trump's Tariff Plan Misunderstands Film
- Trump proposes a 100% tariff on American films made outside the US to revive Hollywood.
- This plan misunderstands modern filmmaking's international nature and reliance on tax incentives.
UK as Hollywood's Global Hub
- The UK has become a premier global hub for shooting big-budget American films.
- Aggressive tax incentives and world-class studios like Pinewood attract major productions.
Studios Locked, Yet Tariffs Threaten
- Long-term studio leases lock major productions in the UK.
- However, tariffs could financially force studios to relocate, causing major industry upheaval.
