In December, France joined the long list of states and countries to look at Hollywood and see dollar (and Euro) signs. But in adopting a tax credit for the film industry at the end of 2008, France included an unusual stipulation. According to the government’s tourist office, a production must pass a cultural test in order to qualify for the 20 percent credit, meaning the movie’s subject matter must be connected to France.

So, presumably, the producers of Pink Panther 2 who substituted Boston for Paris could not do the same in reverse. What’s not clear is whether a film must portray France positively — and, if so, whether that will give other governments any ideas. We, for example, could insist that filmmakers include scenes of stars enjoying clam chowder and tollhouse cookies. We could require that traffic, snow, and potholes be Photo-shopped away, and that our streets appear clearly marked.

And instead of new taxes or tolls, how’s this for a way to plug the budget deficit? Steep fines for actors who bungle their Boston accents.