In a bold move to revive Hollywood, President Trump announced a 100% tariff on foreign films, declaring, 'WE WANT MOVIES MADE IN AMERICA, AGAIN!'—because nothing says patriotism like a couple of blockbuster tariffs.

The proposed tariff, aiming to counteract the decline of the U.S. film industry—which has fallen nearly 40% in production over the last decade—poses potential risks of skyrocketing production costs and further stalling the very revival it seeks. While Trump positions this initiative as a patriotic call to action, analysts warn that it might do more harm than good, likely prompting filmmakers to flee to more financially friendly climes rather than stay and support the American dream of making mediocre sequels.

Trump's outlook stems from the belief that financial incentives provided by other countries pose a national security threat to the United States. One might wonder how a Tarantino film shot in Uzbekistan could potentially impact U.S. safety, but here we are—armed with popcorn and a heightened sense of vigilance against the foreign film menace.

In recent years, the U.S. movie industry has faced a significant economic decline, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and labor strikes within Hollywood. While many turned to binge-watching their favorite shows at home, the industry felt the pinch, proving that even cinematic masterpieces can’t compete with a global pandemic and the allure of sweatpants. As a result, making movies in America is no longer as appealing as a Friday night on the couch, which seems to be the competition—Socks, Snacks, and Streaming.

Trump's directive to the Department of Commerce and the United States Trade Representative suggests he’s committed to doing something about this perceived crisis. Although, one has to ponder whether a 100% tariff is the best way forward—or if it's just a creative way to avoid watching yet another mediocre superhero film at the multiplex.

The appeal of filming abroad has become increasingly enticing, as other nations dangle financial incentives that could convince even the most stubborn director to pack their bags. With movie-making in places like Canada and New Zealand becoming commonplace, some might argue we could see 'Duinception' or 'The Mad Max Saga—Vancouver' soon making its premiere. But alas, with a hefty tariff potentially looming, talented filmmakers might need to consider the higher production costs and reduced overall film production it could bring in the U.S.

While Trump's promise may resonate with those who long for a return to the good old days of American cinema, experts are skeptical about whether a massive tariff could actually serve as an effective stimulus. Concerningly, analysts predict that this tariff might not only deter foreign productions but may drive up prices for domestic filmmakers and further worsen the decline in Hollywood. If producing a film goes from a casual Friday night outing to a major tax liability, it might just translate to fewer creative endeavors altogether. Instead of 'Hollywood or Bust,' we could be facing 'Hollywood or Bust! Serious Financial Review Ahead!'—a real nail-biter.

This isn't the first time Trump has tried to influence the film industry. Previous attempts have included appointing celebrity ambassadors, which oddly makes one contemplate if Ted Danson or someone just as iconic will be rallying the troops next. Perhaps they’ll be handing out popcorn and advocating for a tax break in exchange for a new score on Rotten Tomatoes. It’s a bold plan to revitalize the industry using celebrity power, reminiscent of the age-old adage: ‘if you can’t beat ’em, join ’em… in spandex.’

As the landscape of film production continues to change, some filmmakers may find the pressure from foreign financial incentives more difficult to resist than a well-written rom-com. The broader trend of tariffs and trade wars initiated by Trump certainly complicates this already swirling situation. Amid all this movie talk, you cannot help but imagine Trump shaking his fist at streaming services, demanding they be made in America and sent straight to his TV—after all, who needs cultural diversity when you can simply double down on cinematic nostalgia?

So, will Trump's 100% tariff on foreign films position America as the desired location for filmmaking, or lead to unintended consequences? It’s too early to tell, but it seems that, in the end, whether this move will build up Hollywood or just send filmmakers packing to places with less experimental tax codes remains uncertain.