Following the blockbuster success of Barbie, Sony Pictures has officially begun development on a feature film based on the wildly popular Labubu plush dolls, the fanged, pointy-eared collectible monsters that have taken the global blind-box market by storm.
November 15, 2025: The lucrative trend of adapting toy franchises into major motion pictures continues to accelerate, with Sony Pictures confirming it is developing a full-length movie based on Labubu, the Hong Kong-born collectible doll that has achieved viral global fame.
The Hollywood Reporter confirmed that the studio has commenced development on the project, though producers, writers, and a director have yet to be attached. Sony remains open on the format, with the film potentially landing as either live-action or a fully animated feature.
The Global Craze Behind the Cute Monster
Labubu—a mischievous, elf-like creature with high, pointed ears and a signature row of sharp teeth—was created in 2015 by Hong Kong illustrator Kasing Lung, drawing inspiration from Nordic folklore and mythology. The character belongs to a tribe of “monsters” including Zimomo, Tycoco (Labubu’s shy, skeletal boyfriend), Mokoko, and Pato.
The toys achieved critical mass in recent years after partnering with China-based retail giant Pop Mart, which leverages the “blind-box” model. This mystery element—where buyers don’t know which figure they will get until they open the box—has intensely fueled a frenzied resale market, with some rare dolls fetching six-figure amounts among collectors.
Celebrity Endorsements Fuel the Hype
The collectibles transitioned from a niche hobby to a global fashion accessory thanks to high-profile celebrity endorsements in 2024. Pop icons like BLACKPINK’s Lisa, Kim Kardashian, Rihanna, and David Beckham were all seen sporting the plush dolls as bag charms, transforming the monster-elf into an instant pop culture necessity.
Labubu’s journey to Hollywood mirrors the path taken by other successful toy adaptations like The LEGO Movie (2014) and the groundbreaking Barbie (2023). Sony is also developing a film based on Mattel’s View-Master, reinforcing the studio’s commitment to mining intellectual property from the toy aisle.
The move signals not just a commercial opportunity for Sony but a major cultural victory for Asian creative industries, showcasing how original intellectual property from Hong Kong and Chinese retail giants can successfully transition to the global Hollywood stage.