It was inevitable that the topic would arise during the Milken Institute Global Conference. When asked about President Trump’s proposed tariffs on foreign films, a panel consisting of four film and TV executives (along with one television writer) were faced with this question. Regarding the president’s plan as another potential diplomatic issue to keep productions in the U.S., the group’s response was somewhat unexpected.
Ravi Ahuja, president and CEO of Sony Pictures Entertainment, opened by acknowledging a significant challenge. ‘This is primarily a California problem,’ he emphasized, ‘rather than a national one for the U.S.’ In essence, while it’s correct that much production has moved away from the US, the impact is even greater on California. Various parties, including our companies, are collaborating with state officials to create legislation aimed at addressing this issue.
They want to help, but make no mistake — the economics matter.
If incentives are larger in many American states compared to others, we’ll likely choose to operate here,” Ahuja explained. “It’s important to remember that profit margins in our field are relatively slim. Producers usually set up shop where they can work efficiently, so making the U.S. a more efficient place is beneficial for us.
Casey Bloys, the chairman and CEO of HBO and Max content, concurred.
As a devoted admirer, I can’t help but echo the sentiment expressed: California seems like an ideal hub for talent and resources, yet it presents a challenge when it comes to long-term planning. The reason being, the state tax incentives are limited, making it uncertain and unpredictable whether your production will secure the tax break or not. It’s like playing a lottery with your project’s fiscal stability at stake.
Bloys mainly focuses on supervising TV series rather than movies, and it’s uncertain whether Trump plans to apply a 100% tariff to both foreign-made TV shows and films. It remains doubtful that Trump will follow through with his recent tariff threat, as the White House has already begun to soften the idea following his remarks about revitalizing Hollywood.
Interestingly, it’s actually the unpredictability of California’s tax credit system that poses a significant challenge when it comes to filming in the state, according to Bloys. In contrast, places like Atlanta, Canada, and others offer incentives straight away; California does not.
“If California would address that, that would make a big difference,” Bloys said.
Mike Hopkins stated that the issue at hand is rather intricate, and he acknowledges it as a matter unique to California. He expresses his desire for Governor Newsom to implement an enhancement of the proposed tax credit this summer, and continue to aim even higher. To initiate our journey towards revitalizing California once more.
It’s wonderful when you can leave your workplace and stroll over to the filming location, greet your performers, and check in on the progress,” remarked Hopkins, the leader of Prime Video and Amazon MGM Studios, expressing his delight.
Pearlena Igbokwe, who holds the position as Chairman of Television Studios at NBC Entertainment and Peacock Scripted, concurred, saying, “Yes, that’s the goal we aspire to achieve.
To make the dream a reality, assurances are essential, as Hopkins pointed out. He further emphasized that these assurances are necessary.
He clarified, “We’re not transferring funds to Tom Cruise or any other individual.” Instead, he emphasized, “Stars receive their payment regardless of where they work.
“It actually does drive the economy,” Hopkins said.
Speaking as a fan who’s thrilled about being part of the “Storytelling, Strategy, and Innovation: Shaping the Future of Filmed Entertainment” panel discussion, Deborah Cahn – the creative mind behind “The Diplomat” – shared her delight when her executives pop by the set. However, during the first season, this wasn’t a common occurrence due to the fact that “The Diplomat” was predominantly filmed in Paris and London, not for tax benefits, but because these cities were integral to the narrative itself. For season two, the series has moved to New York City. While it may lack the studio-chief presence of California, it’s still easily accessible.
Cahn stated, ‘The resources and skilled workforce here are unrivaled.’ He’s had excellent experiences abroad, but he can’t find the caliber of designers, teams, and artisans anywhere else as he does here. Therefore, this place remains his top preference.
USA! USA! USA!
“But if you need Buckingham Palace, you got to go get it,” she said.
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2025-05-07 22:55