‘Labubu’ Film Enlists ‘Wonka’ Director Paul King
Sony Pictures is set to bring the popular plush collectibles known as Labubu to the big screen. The studio has enlisted Paul King, renowned for directing the acclaimed “Wonka” and “Paddington” films, to helm this live-action adaptation.
Paul King’s Leadership on “Labubu”
This project, currently in the early stages of development, will see King not only directing but also producing alongside Department M and Wenxin She. King’s latest release, “Wonka,” starring Timothée Chalamet, was a box office triumph, generating an impressive $635 million globally. Similarly, the “Paddington” films have garnered nearly $500 million worldwide and received critical acclaim, underscoring King’s capability in the industry.
Background of Labubu
- Labubu originated from a picture book series launched a decade ago.
- The collectibles are exclusively manufactured and sold by Pop Mart, a retailer based in China.
- The character designs were created by the talented Kasing Lung, who was born in Hong Kong and moved to the Netherlands during his childhood.
The Labubu figures are sold in “blind box” packaging, which adds an element of surprise for collectors, as they cannot see which specific character they are purchasing. This concept has made Labubu distinct in the world of toys.
Trends in Hollywood Adaptations
The film industry has increasingly turned to toys and games for inspiration. Hollywood has seen success with adaptations such as “Barbie” by Warner Bros. and upcoming projects like the “Minecraft Movie.” Recent hits also include “Super Mario Bros.” and “Sonic the Hedgehog.”
As studios aim to innovate, they are exploring various properties, from “Masters of the Universe” to unique concepts like “Rock ’Em Sock ’Em Robots,” which has Vin Diesel attached as a writer. The Hollywood Reporter first reported on Paul King’s involvement with the Labubu project.
