It's my understanding they can read the book if they show a serious interest. They're not expected to take a blind chance on it. It is certainly possible that potential filmmakers are first given a synopsis and then if it progresses, they are allowed to have the actual manuscript.But does the film agent let the producers read the full book before they decide to buy it?
And is an option the same as paying the full money to be allowed to film it?
An option is the term for someone having the right to make the film, i.e. they have optioned the film rights when a contract has been negotiated and signed by all parties making it a legal agreement.