Paul King to Direct Live-Action 'Labubu' Film

The initiative is a partnership with King, Department M, and Wenxin She.

Costfoto/ Nurphoto/ Getty Images

The fanciful realm of Labubu, the impish, wide-eyed figure that has emerged as a global collecting sensation, is officially en route to Hollywood. In a significant effort to leverage the "kidult" toy phenomenon, Sony Pictures has engaged Paul King — the esteemed filmmaker of the acclaimed Paddington films and the commercial success Wonka — to helm a live-action feature adaptation.

The project, presently under initial development, will be produced by King in collaboration with Department M and Wenxin She. Selecting King is a strategic coup for Sony; the director possesses a demonstrated ability to convert eccentric, cherished intellectual properties into poignant movie successes. His latest film, Wonka, generated an impressive $635 million USD globally, whilst the Paddington series amassed approximately $500 million USD and received unanimous critical acclaim for its warmth and visual creativity.

Labubu, conceived by artist Kasing Lung as a component of “The Monsters” series, has evolved from a designer vinyl toy into a cultural icon, propelled by celebrity endorsements and a substantial social media presence. Although plot specifics are undisclosed, the "live-action" label implies a hybrid format like to Paddington, perhaps situating the pointed-eared character within a realistic environment. Under King's direction, audiences can anticipate the picture to embody the ideal equilibrium of Labubu's distinctive "cheeky-but-charming" demeanour and the high-stakes intrigue that has characterised King's oeuvre. Remain attentive for further details regarding the film's release.