Actor Jon Voight has unveiled a comprehensive ‘make Hollywood great again’ plan, aimed at revitalizing the U.S. film industry.
Appointed as a “special ambassador” to Hollywood by President Donald Trump, Voight’s initiative seeks to counteract the trend of American film productions relocating overseas by introducing federal tax incentives, tariffs and co-production treaties to encourage U.S. film production.
First reported by Deadline, the plan is currently under review by the White House and centers on new federal tax incentives designed to make filming in the U.S. more financially competitive with international locations.
The proposal includes several key components:
- Federal Tax Incentives: Implementing tax breaks to make domestic film production more financially attractive.
- Tax Code Revisions: Modifying existing tax laws to further support the film industry.
- Co-Production Treaties: Establishing agreements with foreign countries to facilitate joint film productions.
- Infrastructure Subsidies: Providing financial support for cinema owners, and production and post-production facilities.
- Job Training Initiatives: Developing programs to train workers for various roles within the film industry.
One of the most controversial components is the restoration of the Financial Interest and Syndication Rules (FINSYN), a former FCC regulation repealed in the 1990s. Reinstating the FINSYN rule would limit major networks from owning syndication rights to the shows they broadcast—an effort to empower independent producers and reduce monopolistic control by media conglomerates. If passed, Voight’s initiative could mark a major shift in U.S. media policy.
The impact of these proposed incentives could be significant for Chicago. Already home to several network dramas and indie productions, Chicago could see a surge in local filming if the incentives lower costs and expand opportunities for independent creators. With its diverse locations and existing infrastructure, Chicago stands to benefit from increased domestic production, leading to job creation and economic growth within the local film industry.
Industry response has been cautiously optimistic, with many producers favoring incentive-driven approaches over tariff-based penalties. The consensus is that financial incentives are more effective in encouraging productions to remain in the United States.
“I’m not sure how successful, or permanent, the tariffs would be. There’s a lot who say it will hurt the industry,” said Tony Barraca, President IATSE 476. “I will say this, the conversation about tariffs is leading into a bigger conversation about a sustainable federal tax credit.”
According to Baracca, the IA is currently drafting a proposal with the intention to move the federal tax credit forward.
As Voight’s recommendations undergo review by the White House, stakeholders in the film industry are hopeful that such measures will help restore the prominence of American filmmaking and stimulate economic activity in key production hubs across the country.
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