Sony Pictures has enlisted Paddington and Wonka director Paul King to helm a feature film adaptation of Labubu, the globally popular collectible toy franchise. The project marks Sony’s latest move into adapting high-profile toy brands for the big screen.

Early Development With Pop Mart Collaboration

The Labubu movie remains in early development and has not yet attached a screenwriter. King will direct the movie and produce alongside Department M and producer Wenxin She. Sony is collaborating closely with Pop Mart, the Chinese retailer and brand owner that turned Labubu into a worldwide phenomenon.

Sony acquired the film rights to Labubu just last month. The studio declined to comment further on the project.

From Designer Toy to Global Sensation

Hong Kong-born artist Kasing Lung originally designed Labubu as part of a monster figurine line produced by How2 Work. The brand gained international traction after Pop Mart took over manufacturing and distribution in 2019.

Labubu’s popularity surged due to Pop Mart’s “blind box” sales model, which encourages repeat purchases and fuels a lucrative secondary collector market. Limited-edition figures and original artwork have fetched six-figure prices at auctions and private sales.

Celebrity endorsement also boosted the brand’s visibility, most notably when Blackpink member Lisa began using Labubu figures as fashion accessories in 2024.

The Labubu Universe

Labubu serves as the flagship character of the franchise. Other notable characters include leader Zimomo, companion Mokoko, and boyfriend Tycoco. These characters have appeared across toys, accessories, and collectible art releases worldwide.

Paul King’s Track Record

Paul King rose to prominence after directing and co-writing the first two Paddington films, both of which earned critical acclaim and BAFTA nominations. He later co-wrote and executive produced Paddington in Peru.

Most recently, King directed Wonka for Warner Bros., starring Timothée Chalamet. The film grossed approximately $635 million (around RM3.08 billion) worldwide, further solidifying King’s reputation for blending whimsy with commercial appeal.