Netflix in Negotiations With Disney For Star Wars: The Force Awakens Streaming Rights

Back in 2012, Disney and Netflix made a deal that would allow Disney films —including Marvel, Star Wars, and Pixar properties — to stream exclusively on Netflix Instant, beginning on January 1, 2016. As we get closer to that date, many have speculated that the streaming service will finally include Star Wars films. There were even recent rumors saying that Netflix was prepping their database for the Star Wars films, but Netflix denied those reports. While they have yet to comment on the exisisting six films in the Star Wars saga, Netflix did confirm that, as of now, they don't have the rights to Star Wars: The Force Awakens, but are currently in negotiations to get the film to their streaming library.

Because its theatrical release date is in 2015, The Force Awakens is the final title included as part of Disney's previous home entertainment deal with cable network Starz. However, that deal expires at the end of this year, but as of now, Starz still holds the exclusive rights ot the film. Netflix CEO Reed Hanstings said (via Screencrush) that "It's up to Disney […] It's an ongoing discussion" to get the rights to the film for Netflix Instant .

Disney and Netflix are still planning to make the five Star Wars films Disney has the distribution rights to (all except A New Hope, which is still owned by 20th Century Fox) available on Netflix Instant in Latin American countries, in an effort to boost awareness before The Force Awakens opens in theaters. They'd have to make a new deal with FOX if they want to make A New Hope available on the streaming service.

Star Wars: The Force Awakens will be released in theaters on Dec. 18.

Via Screencrush

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