Sony Adapts Labubu Art Toy Craze into Blockbuster Film

The collectible toy phenomenon is making the leap to the big screen.

Mar. 20, 2026 at 4:50am

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Sony Pictures has acquired the rights to develop a feature film based on Labubu, the popular art toy created by artist Kasing Lung and popularized by the collectibles company Pop Mart. The move signals a major shift in how Hollywood is tapping into pre-existing intellectual property and fan communities to build blockbuster franchises.

Why it matters

The success of Labubu, driven by the 'blind box' phenomenon and influencer marketing, demonstrates the growing power of art toys and designer collectibles as a source of valuable IP. This acquisition could pave the way for more collaborations between toy companies and studios, redefining how franchises are built in the entertainment industry.

The details

Sony's approach to the Labubu film is reportedly aiming for a visually innovative style, potentially similar to Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, while remaining true to the original artwork of Kasing Lung. This signals a commitment to appealing to both existing fans and a broader audience. The studio recognizes that simply adapting the character isn't enough; they need to capture the aesthetic and mystique that have made Labubu so popular.

  • Sony Pictures acquired the rights to develop a Labubu feature film in 2026.

The players

Labubu

A popular art toy character created by artist Kasing Lung and part of Pop Mart's 'The Monsters' collection.

Kasing Lung

The artist who created Labubu and the 'The Monsters' series of art toys.

Pop Mart

A collectibles company that has popularized the Labubu character and the 'blind box' phenomenon.

Sony Pictures

The major film studio that has acquired the rights to develop a Labubu feature film.

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What’s next

Sony is expected to begin development on the Labubu animated feature film, with a focus on capturing the character's unique visual style and appealing to both existing fans and a broader audience.

The takeaway

The Labubu movie acquisition highlights the growing importance of pre-existing intellectual property, particularly from the world of art toys and designer collectibles, in the entertainment industry. This trend could lead to more collaborations between toy companies and studios, redefining how blockbuster franchises are built.