Blind Deal
A studio commitment to produce a project from specific talent without knowing what the project will be.
Definition
A blind deal is a studio or network commitment to produce a project from specific talent (writer, director, or producer) without knowing what that project will be. The studio essentially buys the talent's next idea sight unseen, betting on their track record and creative reputation.
Blind deals are prestigious and relatively rare, typically reserved for creators with strong track records. They give talent security and creative freedom while giving studios first access to their ideas.
Why It Matters
Blind deals represent the highest level of industry confidence in creative talent. They signal that someone's track record is so strong that studios will commit resources based on reputation alone.
For emerging talent, understanding blind deals provides context for career goals and industry power dynamics.
Examples in Practice
A showrunner with multiple hit series receiving a blind deal from a streamer guaranteeing production of their next two projects.
A director's blind deal allowing them to develop any project under a studio's financing umbrella.
A production company's blind deal with a studio committing to multiple films from their development slate.