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Labubu Toys Leap to Big Screen by Sony Pictures
19 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Sony Pictures acquired screen rights to the Chinese plush toy sensation.
- Director Paul King, known for Paddington and Wonka, will direct the film.
- Labubu dolls, inspired by Nordic fairytales, see massive profits and auction sales.
Sony Pictures has officially acquired the screen rights to the highly popular Chinese plush toy sensation, Labubu. The studio has confirmed that a feature film is in early development, with Paul King, the celebrated director behind the global hits Paddington and Wonka, attached to direct. King's previous works, including "Paddington 2," earned nearly US$500 million globally, while "Wonka" grossed $635 million worldwide.
The Labubu toys, created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung and marketed by Pop Mart, have experienced phenomenal growth since 2019, particularly in Southeast Asia. Their popularity has been significantly boosted by social media trends like live unboxing videos and by celebrities adopting them as fashion accessories. This surge in demand has led to rapid sell-outs of new editions and a reported 350% profit increase for Pop Mart in the past year alone.
This development marks another instance of toys inspiring film adaptations, a trend amplified by the success of the 2023 Barbie movie. Several toy companies, including Mattel, are reportedly exploring film pitches for their brands, with Sony also partnering with Mattel for a View-Master film. It remains to be determined if the upcoming Labubu film will be live-action or animated.
