Pulp - The Microsoft Interview

On the auspicious day of the film's launch we spoke to the movie's producer, Phil Bland, about the project, and what it was like working with Microsoft (you can read our interview here).

Following the films launch, we caught up with Microsoft's Pav Bhardwaj - Xbox LIVE's product manager - and asked him a few questions about the company's recent shift into television and film. Here's what he had to say to us:

Moving into the film and entertainment space seems like a logical progression for Microsoft. Can we assume that Pulp is to be first of many?

We've been in the entertainment space for several years with the Xbox Video service, plus partners such as Netflix, LOVEFiLM and NowTV, and we are continuing to grow. But hosting a world premiere over Xbox LIVE is a world first, and is another example of how Xbox is bringing a wide variety of entertainment content to our service.

It seems like a quirky choice to kick things off. Can you explain the thinking behind selecting Pulp as the first movie to premiere on Xbox LIVE?

We think Pulp is a great fit for Xbox LIVE and is really well aligned with our audience. It's also important for us to support homegrown British talent.

And are there plans to tackle more mainstream offerings, perhaps even featuring TV shows, further down the line?

Both live and on-demand TV already exist on Xbox LIVE today. Sky subscribers can access their favourite channels through their Xbox 360, and apps already on the service such as Xbox Video, BBC iPlayer and 4oD offer the latest television series on-demand. Right now, Xbox LIVE Gold subscribers can access free episodes from popular TV series' including Family Guy, Breaking Bad, Homeland and much more. We're always looking at new ways to bring popular content to our customers.

Is this part of a longer term plan to make Microsoft's own Video Marketplace rival the likes of Netflix and LoveFilm with exclusive content?

With Xbox Video, we're committed to delivering a service which offers the very best in television and movies available to own or rent. But we're also committed to offering choice for our consumers, and by working with partners such as Netflix or LOVEFiLM, we're able to do this. That's why, if you search for a certain movie or show on Xbox LIVE, it comes up with all the available services that you can use to access that content, so you can pick whichever makes the most sense for you.

What sort of audience do you expect to draw in with this deal?

We're not only looking to expand Xbox LIVE but also to add value to people who already use the service. The great thing about Pulp is that it's the kind of film that will appeal to both existing LIVE subscribers and people who are new to the service. And for anyone who is considering upgrading from free to Gold, there is a free Xbox LIVE Gold unlock weekend coming up in Europe (8 - 10 March) so that's a great opportunity to experience first-hand what Xbox LIVE Gold has to offer.

How much is it going to cost to wacth it, and what viewing options are you offering?

Pulp is available now to buy or rent, available in standard and high definition. Rental prices start from £3.49, with download-to-own starting from £9.99.

Why handle this yourself rather than a third party?

With Xbox LIVE, we have a platform that reaches over 46 million people worldwide. Since first hearing about Pulp, we've believed it to be a fantastic fit for Xbox LIVE members and are thrilled to be able to premiere the movie exclusively to our community.