A method and apparatus for attaching/detaching a filmstrip (5B) to a film cartridge (3) having a take-up spool (16) rotatably mounted therein, said carriage having an access opening (17) for allowing film to be inserted or removed from within. The apparatus includes means for positioning the film carriage in a predetermined position. An attachment tool rotatably mounted to said mechanism for movement about a pivot point, said attachment tool having a generally arcuate guide member (21). A mechanism is provided for moving said attachment tool from a non-engaged position to a first engaged position such that a portion of the attachment tool extending into said access opening, for engaging the filmstrip (5B) to said attachment tool and for moving said tool to a second engaging position for engaging the filmstrip to said spool (16). The mechanism further provided for moving said attachment tool to a radial direction while said attachment tool extending into said access opening.