Sony Movies on Xbox 360 – What’s the Deal?

First, about 12,000 Sony movies inexplicably stopped streaming from Netflix’s Instand Watch Service to the Xbox 360 video game console (what are people supposed to do with their time if they can’t download the Karate Kid???).  Naturally, everyone assumed (as did I) that this was because Sony suddenly decided against working with their rival (Sony makes the Playstation consoles). 

Of course, Sony issued a statement that seemed to downplay any talk about the rivalry being the reason for the missing movies and TV shows:

This issue is not specific to Xbox or any other individual platform.  Sony Pictures is currently in discussions with the relevant parties to resolve certain licensing matters related to the distribution of its motion pictures.  Given the ongoing nature of these discussions, we don’t think it is appropriate to comment further at this time.

Now, the movies and shows are back (for the most part – things labelled "available through Starz Play" are still not available).  Again, without real explanation, Xbox 360 users are able to access most Sony titles.  Looks like I’ve got a date with Mr. Miyagi…

image: Amazon.com