Attach
To secure a commitment from key talent, director, or financing for a film project.
Definition
In film development, "attach" means securing a formal commitment from a key element—typically a star actor, director, or financing source—to a project. Attachments are crucial for moving projects forward, as each major attachment makes the project more attractive to others.
Attachments range from informal interest ("circling") to binding contractual commitments. Strong attachments can transform a script from an unsold spec to a greenlit production.
Why It Matters
The attachment process is the engine of film development. Projects often stall without key attachments, while the right star or director can instantly greenlight a production.
Understanding how attachments work helps producers package projects strategically and helps marketers anticipate which projects are likely to move forward.
Examples in Practice
A producer attaching an A-list star to a script, which then triggers financing commitments from multiple studios.
A director becoming attached to a project contingent on securing a specific actor for the lead role.
A streaming platform committing to distribute a film once certain talent attachments are confirmed.