In a recent development within the entertainment industry, President Donald Trump's proposed tariffs on foreign-made films have prompted significant reactions, including from Hollywood actress and director Kristen Stewart. Stewart announced her plans to potentially relocate from the United States, voicing concerns that the proposed policies could hinder her ability to work freely within the American film sector.
During an interview with The Times, Stewart, known for her role in the "Twilight" saga, conveyed her intention to develop her directorial career with a focus on European film production. The actress, who splits her time between Los Angeles and New York, suggested that her future may not be in the United States, stating, "I am probably not going to continue living in the United States much longer."
Stewart's directorial debut, "The Chronology of Water," which was shot in Latvia, exemplifies her stance. She expressed that producing the film in the US "would have been impossible," highlighting the challenges she anticipates under the proposed tariffs. The President's policy initiative aims to place a 100% tariff on films produced outside the United States, a move he argues will protect the American film industry from foreign competition.
The President has been vocal about his stance on social media platforms such as Truth Social, asserting that the movie-making business has been "stolen" from the US and specifically criticizing California's governance under Gov. Gavin Newsom. Trump's posts suggest a strong belief that his tariff policy will rectify what he sees as a significant problem for the US film industry.
Gov. Newsom's office has been openly critical of the President's proposal, labeling it as "100% stupid" and arguing that it will do "irreparable damage to the U.S. film industry." The Governor had previously attempted to convey these concerns to President Trump when the tariff idea was first broached.
Kristen Stewart has been pursuing her directorial project since 2018, when it was announced at the Cannes Film Festival. She has previously commented on the structure of the entertainment industry, criticizing it as a "capitalist hell" and advocating for a "full system break" to allow for greater artistic expression.
The actress's relationship with President Trump dates back over a decade, notably during her personal life's public scrutiny when Trump offered unsolicited advice on her relationship with "Twilight" co-star Robert Pattinson via social media. Stewart's recent remarks to The New York Times further criticize the entertainment industry, suggesting the need for radical changes to empower artists and reduce barriers to film production.
Despite her criticism and plans to work primarily in Europe, Stewart clarified that she does not intend to abandon the American market, indicating a desire to present her European-made films to American audiences.
The tariff proposal by President Trump has not progressed since its initial announcement, leaving the future of this policy and its potential impacts on the film industry uncertain.
