Sony Pictures Begins Development on Labubu Movie
Sony Pictures has begun the early stages of developing a film based on the popular Labubu doll franchise. This marks an exciting venture for the Culver City studio, which has secured the feature film rights to the Chinese doll. However, specifics regarding the film’s format—whether it will be animated or live-action—have yet to be determined. Currently, no creative teams or talent have been attached to the project.
Origin of Labubu Dolls
The Labubu dolls were created in 2015 by Kasing Lung, a Hong Kong native who is now based in Europe. The dolls initially saw production through How2 Work. In 2019, Chinese retailer Pop Mart took over the manufacturing and marketing responsibilities.
Popularity and Market Dynamics
Labubu is part of Lung’s story series, titled “The Monsters,” which draws inspiration from Nordic folklore. While the dolls gained significant traction in East and Southeast Asia, their popularity eventually reached the United States. This growth has led to the emergence of a black market where some Labubu dolls are sold for six-figure sums.
- Labubu dolls are typically sold in blind boxes, adding an element of surprise for buyers.
- This marketing strategy has increased both retail and auction prices.
- Celebrity endorsements from figures like Lisa from K-pop group Blackpink have further elevated the brand’s status.
Financial Performance of The Monsters Line
Pop Mart reported significant revenue contributions from “The Monsters” line. According to their 2024 annual report, this series generated an impressive $430 million, accounting for 23.3% of the company’s total revenue for that year. Furthermore, in the first half of 2025, the line raked in $670 million, representing close to 35% of Pop Mart’s revenue during that period.
The upcoming Labubu movie is set to capitalize on this thriving market and the rich storytelling potential of its origins, exciting fans and collectors alike.
