Paul King to Direct Labubu Movie

The "creepy-cute" takeover is officially moving from our bag straps to the silver screen. In a move that has the toy world and cinema buffs buzzing, Sony Pictures has confirmed that our favorite mischievous elf, Labubu, is getting the Hollywood treatment.

Here is everything you need to know about the transition of Pop Mart’s crown jewel from blind-box sensation to movie star.

Paul King Brings His Whimsical Magic to the Labubu Universe

If there is anyone who can capture the chaotic yet heartwarming energy of Labubu, it’s Paul King. The director behind the soul-warming Paddington films and the vibrant Wonka has been tapped to helm this feature project. King isn't just directing; he’s also producing alongside Department M and Wenxin She.

While the script is still in the works and Sony is on the hunt for the perfect writer, the big question remains: will we see a live-action Labubu, a fully animated world, or a CGI hybrid? Given King’s track record for making digital characters feel incredibly real, a hybrid style seems like the winning bet to bring those nine iconic teeth to life.

From Nordic Folklore to Global Streetwear Icon

For the uninitiated, Labubu isn’t just a toy—it’s a cultural reset. Born from the mind of artist Kasing Lung and inspired by Nordic fairy tales, these monsters exploded in popularity when POP MART took over distribution in 2019. Labubu is the star of "The Monsters" crew, often joined by the leader Zimomo and the shy skeleton Tycoco.

The obsession reached fever pitch thanks to major co-signs from the likes of BLACKPINK’s Lisa, Rihanna, and Dua Lipa. What started as a collectible figurine has morphed into the ultimate fashion accessory, with fans lining up for hours to snag rare "secret" variants. Sony’s acquisition of the rights in late 2025 signals that the "ugly-cute" aesthetic is here to stay, with plans to turn this mischievous monster into a full-blown cinematic franchise.