Graduation Year

2025

Document Type

Open Access Senior Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Department

Media Studies

Reader 1

Jennifer Friedlander

Reader 2

Nancy Macko

Rights Information

© 2024 Karolina Krok

Abstract

This thesis explores the internationalization of Hollywood through economic and creative runaway productions driven by international tax incentives. It examines how these incentives can impact not only the commercial but the cultural success of productions filmed abroad, focusing on regions such as Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, California, New York, and New Jersey. The analysis centers on cultural tests and diversity requirements, revealing two main approaches: the first requires a minimum of diversity standards and cultural tests points to be met, while the second prioritizes and rewards productions with the highest achieved assessment of those. Furthermore, the paper critiques past approaches, including the perpetuation of stereotypical portrayals and extractive production practices, emphasizing the need for policies that recognize meaningful representation and community engagement. Ultimately, this research concludes that incentivizing cultural contributions is the future of tax incentives, positioning them as a powerful policy tool for shaping global, culturally impactful, and authentic storytelling, while generating substantial economic benefits.

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