Why Sony Is Betting on a Labubu Movie After Barbie

 

Sony Bets on Labubu: The Viral Toy Set for Big Screen Adaptation

Sony Pictures is developing a movie based on the viral plush toy Labubu. The studio secured the film rights to the Chinese collectible character in late 2025. This move signals a major push to replicate the success of toy-based blockbusters like Barbie.

The project is in its earliest development phase. According to The Hollywood Reporter, no writers, directors, or cast are attached yet. The film’s format, whether animated or live-action, also remains undecided.

Labubu movie

From Artist’s Sketch to Global Phenomenon

Labubu was created by Hong Kong-based artist Kasing Lung. The character first appeared in his “The Monsters” picture book series. Chinese toy company Pop Mart then brought the quirky, fanged creature to life as a collectible plush.

Pop Mart’s blind box sales strategy fueled its rise. Buyers do not know which specific toy they are purchasing. This element of surprise created a massive collector’s market and viral social media presence. Rare variants have sold for thousands of dollars on the secondary market.

Celebrity Endorsements and Market Domination

The toy’s popularity exploded with celebrity backing. BLACKPINK’s Lisa was photographed with a Labubu keychain in early 2024. This single event triggered a global surge in demand.

Soon, other A-listers like Rihanna and Dua Lipa were spotted with their own Labubu dolls. The character became a fashion accessory and status symbol. Brand collaborations with companies like Uniqlo and Coca-Cola further cemented its cultural footprint.

Pop Mart’s financial success is undeniable. The company reported staggering revenue for the first half of 2025. Figures cited by Reuters show it significantly outpaced traditional toy giants like Mattel during the same period.

Hollywood’s Toy Box Gold Rush

Sony’s acquisition is part of a larger industry trend. The historic box office performance of Barbie proved the immense potential of toy-based intellectual property. Studios are now aggressively scouring for the next big brand.

Labubu represents a different kind of challenge. Unlike Barbie, it is a niche character with a story yet to be told to a mass audience. The creative team will need to build a narrative around its mischievous and enigmatic appeal. The goal is to launch a new family-friendly franchise.

The project carries inherent risks. Translating a collectible’s cult status into a compelling film is difficult. However, the built-in global fanbase provides a strong foundation for success. Sony will be keen to capture the magic that made the toy a sensation.

This development confirms that any beloved character with a dedicated following can become a cinematic contender. The success of the Labubu movie will depend on its ability to charm audiences beyond its core collector base.

Info at your fingertips

What is a Labubu?

Labubu is a character from Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung’s “The Monsters” series. It is a mischievous, fanged creature known for its quirky smile. Pop Mart manufactures it as a highly collectible plush toy.

Why is Labubu so popular?

Its popularity stems from Pop Mart’s blind box sales model and strong celebrity endorsements. Figures like BLACKPINK’s Lisa sparked a global trend. The brand’s limited editions and collaborations also drive demand.

When will the Labubu movie be released?

There is no official release date. The project was only announced in late 2025 and is in very early development. Production has not yet begun.

Will the movie be animated or live-action?

Sony has not decided on the film’s final format. Both animated and live-action options are reportedly still on the table for the creative team to explore.

Who owns the rights to Labubu?

Pop Mart, the Chinese toy company, holds the commercial rights to the Labubu character. Sony Pictures has acquired the exclusive rights to develop a feature film based on it.