Hollywood's Trump Hope: Reshore Moviemaking, But Not This Way

Omar Yusuf

3 min read

Post on May 07, 2025

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The Economic Case for Reshore Moviemaking in the US

The economic arguments for reshore moviemaking are compelling. Bringing film production back to American soil promises significant economic boosts across the board.

Job Creation and Economic Stimulus

Reshore moviemaking creates a ripple effect of job growth. It's not just about actors and directors; it encompasses a vast network of support roles:

• Production Crew: Camera operators, gaffers, grips, sound technicians, and countless others form the backbone of any film production.
• Post-Production: Editors, visual effects artists, sound designers, and composers are essential for the final product.
• Support Services: Catering, transportation, security, and location management all contribute to the economic activity generated by filming.

These jobs aren't concentrated in Hollywood; filming often takes place across the country, revitalizing local economies. Increased filming activity also translates to increased tax revenue for local and state governments, further fueling economic growth. Successful reshoring in other industries, such as manufacturing, demonstrates the potential for similar positive impacts on the film sector.

Supporting Domestic Talent and Infrastructure

Investing in reshore moviemaking means investing in American talent and infrastructure. This includes:

• Developing skilled American crews: Supporting training programs and apprenticeships ensures a robust pipeline of skilled professionals.
• Modernizing studio infrastructure: Investing in state-of-the-art facilities keeps the US competitive in the global film market.
• Boosting local economies: Filming in diverse locations across the US creates opportunities for local businesses, from hotels and restaurants to equipment rentals.

The Challenges of Reshore Moviemaking: Avoiding the Wrong Approach

While the benefits are clear, a naive approach to reshore moviemaking can be detrimental. Several significant challenges need careful consideration.

The High Cost of Production in the US

Production costs in the US are significantly higher than in many international locations. This is largely due to:

• Labor costs: Higher wages and union regulations increase production budgets considerably.
• Insurance and liability: The costs associated with insurance and liability are often higher in the US.
• Location permits and fees: Securing filming permits and paying associated fees can add substantially to the budget.

To offset these higher costs, significant financial incentives – tax breaks, rebates, and grants – might be necessary to make reshore moviemaking economically viable.

The Risk of Unsustainable Practices

Overly protectionist policies, designed solely to keep international productions out, risk damaging the collaborative nature of the global film industry. This could:

• Limit creative collaborations: Restricting international participation can stifle creativity and innovation.
• Harm global competitiveness: Isolationist policies might make US productions less competitive in the global market.
• Lead to unsustainable short-term gains: Focusing solely on short-term economic gains without considering long-term sustainability can backfire.

The Importance of a Strategic Approach

A balanced approach is vital. This means:

• Targeted incentives: Focusing incentives on specific genres or niches where the US has a competitive advantage.
• Infrastructure improvements: Investing in soundstages, post-production facilities, and training programs.
• Smart regulatory policies: Streamlining permitting processes and creating a business-friendly environment.
• Collaboration: Fostering partnerships between government agencies, film studios, and educational institutions.

Conclusion: A Sustainable Path to Reshore Moviemaking

Reshore moviemaking offers significant economic and cultural benefits, but it requires a carefully considered approach. Ignoring the challenges of high production costs and the need for international collaboration will lead to unsustainable practices. By implementing strategic policies that combine incentives, infrastructure improvements, and smart regulations, the US can create a sustainable path for reshore moviemaking, boosting the domestic economy and strengthening the American film industry. Learn more about how smart policies can support reshore moviemaking and join the conversation on building a sustainable future for this vital sector.