It’s not a fever dream, and it’s definitely not a cruel joke: a Labubu movie is really happening. Honestly, we probably shouldn’t be surprised after the likes of Barbie, Sonic the Hedgehog, and the seemingly endless parade of LEGO movies. And yet… here we are, shocked and delighted all at once.
Look, it’s going to be a laugh. Who could resist a comedy film featuring tiny, creepily cute monsters? Fingers crossed it leans fully into comedy, though you could argue the characters’ mischievous charm might even work better as a mild horror. Either way, we’re intrigued.
Pop Mart and Sony Pictures’ Labubu movie has officially revealed the creative team tasked with bringing this global phenomenon to the big screen. It didn’t take long, but we suppose they had to strike while the trend was still dominating TikTok, handbags, and pop culture feeds worldwide.
These key developments were announced by Labubu creator Kasing Lung and King during the Paris stop of Pop Mart’s “The Monsters” global exhibition tour, celebrating their 10th anniversary. A decade ago, Lung launched the whimsical world of Labubu via the picture book series collectively known as The Monsters Trilogy.
From there, the toys — produced and sold exclusively by China-based retailer Pop Mart — became a bona fide pop culture fixation. Sony Pictures snapped up the screen rights to the Labubu IP in 2025, and fans have been buzzing for a film ever since.
Here's everything we know about the upcoming Labubu film.
Who is involved in the Labubu movie?
BAFTA-nominated director Paul King is set to produce and direct the Labubu movie, bringing his acclaimed touch from Paddington and Wonka, making him perfectly suited for the task. He’ll also co-write the screenplay with award-winning screenwriter and playwright Steven Levenson, who has earned a Tony nomination for Dear Evan Hansen, a WGA Award nod for Tick, Tick… Boom!, and an Emmy for FX’s Fosse/Verdon.
Labubu creator Kasing Lung will serve as an executive producer, ensuring the film stays true to the whimsical spirit of the original universe. The producing team also includes King, Michael Schaefer (The Martian) and Wenxin She (A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood, Wish Dragon). Meanwhile, Brittany Morrissey will oversee the project for Sony Pictures.
As for the format? The project is still in early development, but it’s set to be a live-action and CGI hybrid. We think it'll give the same energy as the Trolls or Smurf movies.
It's going to be a good year for film, especially if you're Anne Hathaway.
Who is in the cast of the Labubu movie?
There’s no official title for the Labubu movie just yet, as it’s still very much in its early stages. But Labubus have become a bona fide global phenomenon in recent years, turning Pop Mart into a toy-making powerhouse valued at nearly $40bn (£29.9bn).
Translation: they’ve got the budget to get a star-studded cast.
The brand’s popularity isn’t just in the toy aisles, either. Celebrities, including Rihanna, Dua Lipa, and Lisa, have all been spotted sporting Labubu charms on their designer handbags. With a fanbase this stylish and devoted, it wouldn’t be surprising if the movie tapped into that celebrity and social-media love to help cast its characters.
If Margot Robbie could play Barbie and Anya Taylor-Joy could play Princess Peach, no celebrity is out of reach for the Labubu movie.
When will the Labubu film be released?
Since the film hasn’t even started casting yet, we’ve still got a long wait ahead. The earliest we could see it hit screens is fall 2027, though no release date has been officially confirmed.
Check back in, as we'll keep you updated on all things related to the new Labubu movie.
