What is an Actor Letter of Intent?

Much of the filmmaking process behind the scenes is contractual and of a legal nature. You might not realize it if you’re in front of the screen. But any producer will tell you that much of their job is focused on ensuring all appropriate steps have been taken. To ensure there are no future legal battles to contend with when a production has been completed. One of the most common contracts involved in the filmmaking process is the actor letter of intent.

In fact, before an actor is officially cast for a film they will provide legal documentation that expresses their intent to perform. Or otherwise be involved in a particular project.

The actor letter of intent, sometimes just called a letter of intent or LOI. It represents a legally binding document. Which expressly outlines the intent of the actor to be involved in the production.

What is an Actor Letter of Intent?

The actor letter of intent represents a written document. Which outlines the actor’s intent to perform. Or otherwise be involved in a particular film project.

The LOI will essentially outline the various conditions that the actor expects to be met. All this in order for a full contractual commitment or negotiation to occur.

Included in the actor letter of intent are the key details of the project, details relative to the production company, and information about the role that the actor has intent to commit to.

Not a Contract

Technically speaking, the letter of intent does not actually represent a contract. Although it is a written document.

The actor letter of intent shows that the actor is interested in performing for the production. Provided the appropriate conditions are met. And the negotiations are satisfied in coming to a contracted agreement. 

Why is the Actor Letter of Intent Important?

The actor letter of intent is important. Because it is used to document the intent of the actor to perform for the production. Without these letters of intent from actors, the film could have trouble raising financing early on.

Thus, with written actor letter of intent forms, the filmmaker can use them as leverage when working with film financiers to secure the necessary financing for the production to actually take place.

The Takeaway

Although the letter of intent is not a contract specifying that the actor will, 100%, be involved in the production it does specify that the actor is interested in the production.

As long as the producer can secure financing and work out the terms of the agreement with the actor, they will in fact be in the project.

The actor letter of intent represents the next best thing to a signed contract between the filmmaker and the actor as it represents their desire to be part of the project should the financing be established and funding be worked out to meet the actor’s financial needs.