Hong Kong’s mischievous fantasy creature Labubu is getting the big-screen treatment, with Paddington and Wonka filmmaker Paul King tapped to direct and produce the live-action film. The project, being developed with Department M and producer Wenxin She, is still in its early stages and currently looking for a writer.
Sony Pictures recently acquired the Labubu film rights and will partner with Chinese toy giant Pop Mart to bring the beloved collectible to cinemas worldwide.
Created by Hong Kong-born artist Kasing Lung, Labubu first appeared as designer figurines under How2Work before Pop Mart took over production in 2019, transforming the brand into a global phenomenon. Known for its impish grin, fuzzy tufts, and forest-dwelling aesthetic, the character has inspired countless variations — and driven collectors wild through Pop Mart’s signature “blind box” sales model.
Fans never know which version they’ll get until the box is opened, fueling a thriving resale market where rare designs have fetched six-figure sums. Celebrity fans like BLACKPINK’s Lisa have also helped elevate Labubu to cult-icon status, often styling the plush toy as an accessory.
While story details remain under wraps, Sony’s partnership with Pop Mart signals an ambitious move to expand Labubu’s universe beyond collectibles and art toys — positioning the creature as the next East Asian character to charm global audiences.
Read more: Labubu’s Ascent: How a Blind Box Toy Became a Global Pop Culture Powerhouse
King, meanwhile, brings his signature blend of whimsy and warmth from Paddington and Wonka. “I loved working with Hugh [Grant] on Paddington 2 and would cheerfully work with him every day for the rest of my life,” he told Radio Times. He described the actor as “one of the funniest people” he’s met, hinting at the mischievous tone Labubu fans might expect.
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King also revealed that he’s been developing a Wonka sequel, teasing that the next chapter could see the young chocolatier (played by Timothée Chalamet) “travel across the globe.”
For Labubu fans, the collaboration marks a pivotal moment — moving the creature from art toy circles to cinema screens, with a director known for turning quirky icons into heartfelt storytelling sensations.
