Sony Pictures has secured the rights to adapt Labubu, the widely loved Chinese toy line of quirky monster figurines, into a feature film. The agreement, finalized this week, signals the studio’s intent to potentially launch a new franchise, though details on the production team and whether the project will be animated or live-action remain undisclosed.
Created by Hong Kong–born, Europe-based artist Kasing Lung, Labubu was originally produced by How2 Work before gaining mass appeal when Chinese retailer Pop Mart began manufacturing and distributing the toys in 2019. The brand’s signature blind-box model—encouraging collectors to purchase without knowing which figure they will receive—has fueled a thriving resale market, with rare pieces selling for six-figure sums.
Celebrity influence has further amplified Labubu’s global reach. Blackpink’s Lisa famously incorporated the figures into her styling in 2024, expanding the toy line’s international fan base. The collection includes a cast of distinctive characters, among them the iconic Labubu, group leader Zimomo, companion Mokoko, and boyfriend Tycoco. Earlier this year, Pop Mart reported a 350% surge in profits, underscoring Labubu’s growing cultural impact.
The move aligns with a broader industry trend of adapting popular toys for the big screen, following the success of films like *The Lego Movie* and *Barbie*. Whether Labubu can follow in their footsteps remains to be seen, but Sony’s acquisition marks a significant step toward bringing the collectible phenomenon to cinemas.
