Sony Pictures has hired Paul King, who is known for directing the Paddington movies and Wonka, to direct a live-action movie based on the very popular Labubu collectible toys. The project is still in its early stages, but it plans to turn the mischievous elf-like rabbit characters from Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung’s “The Monsters” series into a movie, with the possibility of a full franchise. Along with Department M and Wenxin She, King will also produce, taking advantage of Labubu’s rise to fame as plush blind-box toys in 2025.
Labubu started out as picture books ten years ago, but this year they became a global craze as collectible plush toys with round faces, wide eyes, and pointy ears. Last month, Sony bought the rights to the movie. They want to make a story-driven version of their fantasy world full of adventure and whimsy. The toys are just as popular as movies based on toys, which mix childlike innocence with a little bit of trouble.
King’s most recent hit, Wonka, starring Timothée Chalamet, made $635 million worldwide. This follows his charming Paddington movies, which won over audiences with their heartfelt stories. His knowledge of silly, family-friendly worlds makes him a great fit for Labubu’s cute-but-edgy style. There are no writers or release dates yet, but buzz says this will be Sony’s next big IP play.
About the author
Daya Nanoskar is an Entertainment Writer at Awesome TV and a contributor to AWSM Times. Daya covers film news, streaming releases, celebrity updates and industry news across Hollywood and Bollywood, and has written more than 2,300 stories for Awesome TV. Story tips and corrections: hello@awesometv.com.
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