A method and apparatus for attaching/detaching a filmstrip to a film cartridge having a take-up spool rotatably mounted therein and an access opening for allowing film to be inserted or removed from the cartridge. The apparatus includes a first positioning mechanism for positioning the film cartridge in a first orientation. An attachment tool is provided for movement between an non-engaging position and a first engaging position. A mechanism is provided for releasing the cartridge from its first orientation and for biasing the cartridge to a second orientation. The tool is then moved to a second engaging position whereby the filmstrip can be attached or detached from the spool.