First Look Deal
A First Look Deal is a common agreement in the entertainment industry where a producer, writer, or director gives a studio or production company the first chance to review and buy their new projects before showing them to anyone else. It's like having a "right of first refusal" on creative work. These deals often include office space at the studio and basic funding for project development. Companies use these agreements to maintain relationships with talented creators and get early access to promising new content.
Examples in Resumes
Negotiated First Look Deal with Netflix for upcoming television projects
Managed slate of projects under First-Look Agreement with Warner Bros
Developed 5 feature films through First Look partnership with Universal Pictures
Typical job title: "Development Executives"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Development Executives
Industry Organizations
Industry News & Resources
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you evaluate the success of a First Look Deal?
Expected Answer: Should discuss metrics like number of projects developed, success rate of greenlighted projects, revenue generation, and relationship management with creators. Should mention balancing creative and business aspects.
Q: What strategies do you use to maintain successful First Look relationships?
Expected Answer: Should explain relationship building with talent, regular check-ins, providing constructive feedback, and understanding both creative and business needs of all parties involved.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are the key components of a First Look Deal?
Expected Answer: Should mention development funding, timeline for project review, office space provisions if applicable, and terms for passing on projects.
Q: How do you track and manage multiple First Look projects simultaneously?
Expected Answer: Should discuss project management systems, timeline tracking, budget management, and coordination between creative teams and executives.
Junior Level Questions
Q: Can you explain what a First Look Deal is and why companies use them?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the basic concept of giving first rights to review projects and how it benefits both the studio and creators.
Q: What's the typical process when a project comes in under a First Look Deal?
Expected Answer: Should describe the basic steps of project submission, review process, and standard timeline for decisions.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Understanding of entertainment industry basics
- Project tracking and organization
- Basic contract terminology
- Communication with creative talent
Mid (2-5 years)
- Project evaluation and development
- Talent relationship management
- Deal term negotiation
- Budget management
Senior (5+ years)
- Strategic partnership building
- Portfolio management
- High-level deal negotiation
- Industry relationship development
Red Flags to Watch For
- No understanding of basic entertainment industry terms
- Lack of experience with talent management or relationships
- Poor communication skills
- No knowledge of project development process
- Unfamiliarity with standard industry agreements
Related Terms
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
Global Compliance Checks: The Hidden Puzzle Pieces of Background Screening Revealed
How Internal Gig Marketplaces Revolutionize Employee Development
When Hiring from Competitors: Goldmine or Landmine?
