Dubrovnik: The historic city of Dubrovnik, famed for its stone fortresses and narrow cobbled streets, has seen a surge in global attention over the past decade as a prominent filming location for blockbuster productions such as Game of Thrones and Star Wars: The Last Jedi. However, recent remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump have cast uncertainty over the future of international filmmaking in the region.
Trump’s pledge to impose a 100% tariff on all films produced outside the United States has sparked concern among film professionals and local businesses that have flourished as a result of Dubrovnik’s growing cinematic appeal.
“There have been huge disruptions because of the tariffs that Trump plans to introduce,” said Croatian film producer Igor Aleksandar Nola. He noted that film production budgets, already under strain due to broader economic challenges, are now facing additional complications. “Part of the financing coming from banks and investment funds for audio-visual arts has been on standby because of the uncertainty,” Nola told Reuters.
Dubrovnik, like many parts of Central Europe and the Balkans, has become a favored location for Hollywood due to its diverse architecture, picturesque landscapes, and cost-effective production opportunities. The cultural crossover between film and tourism has transformed the local economy.
“The film and Game of Thrones have changed Dubrovnik for sure,” said local tourist guide Ivan Vukovic. He explained that around 1,000 visitors join Game of Thrones-themed tours daily, showcasing the immense draw of cinematic tourism. The tourism boom has also given rise to new businesses, including souvenir shops and seasonal employment for locals supporting film crews.
“All of this created a big economic boom,” Vukovic added.
Despite Trump’s comments, no clear timeline or logistical framework for implementing the tariffs has been announced, leaving many in the industry uncertain about the practical implications.
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At the Cannes Film Festival, which opened on Tuesday, filmmakers and executives maintained a cautious optimism, continuing operations despite the unease triggered by the potential trade measures.
Mate Frankovic, the mayor of Dubrovnik, expressed confidence that the situation would stabilize. With the city welcoming approximately 1.4 million tourists annually, he remains optimistic about Dubrovnik’s enduring appeal to filmmakers.
“I honestly cannot imagine a single serious U.S. film and large production without including a major European city,” Frankovic said.
As stakeholders await further clarity from Washington, Dubrovnik’s film future hangs in the balance—caught between political policy and cinematic legacy.
