Paul King, the mastermind behind the cuddly Paddington Bear and the whimsical Willy Wonka, is now set to venture into the realm of the bizarre and adorable with a big-screen adaptation of Labubu, one of the world's most coveted collectible phenomena. Just a month after securing the film rights to this unique franchise, Sony Pictures has enlisted King to bring Labubu's world to life, both as director and producer, alongside Department M (The Christophers, The Hand that Rocks the Cradle remake) and Wenxin She (Wish Dragon, A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood).
The project is still in its infancy, with a writer yet to be found, but Sony is collaborating with Chinese retailer and brand owner Pop Mart on this adaptation. Labubu, a line of monster figurines designed by Hong Kong-born, European-based artist Kasing Lung and initially created by How2 Work, saw its breakthrough in 2019 when Pop Mart took over its production and distribution.
The recent surge in popularity of Labubu can be attributed to two main factors. Firstly, Pop Mart's innovative approach of selling them through "blind boxes" has created a frenzied secondary market, where collectors are willing to pay exorbitant amounts for the dolls they desire. Limited edition artwork and auctions have even seen items fetching six-figure prices. Secondly, the toys were adopted by celebrities, particularly K-pop group Blackpink member Lisa, who used them as accessories in 2024.
Labubu is the name of the lead monster doll in the series, which includes characters like leader Zimomo, companion Mokoko, and boyfriend Tycoco. King's talent for whimsy and heart was first recognized for directing and co-writing the first two Paddington movies, which earned him BAFTA Award nominations and a dedicated fanbase. He also co-wrote the screenplay for the third Paddington film, Paddington in Peru, and recently directed Wonka for Warner Bros., starring Timothée Chalamet and grossing $635 million worldwide.
King is represented by WME, UK's Independent Talent Group, and Davis Law Group.
