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Let’s just begin with this: in Paul King we trust. The man directed Paddington. More importantly, he directed Paddington 2. And lest we forget, he also directed the delightful Wonka. So, he has talent – especially when it comes to taking unlikely source material (those fusty old Paddington bear books? A Willy Wonka origin story?) and turning it into must-see, hand-crafted cinema. Which is all a preamble to say, King is taking on his unlikeliest project yet, one which – if anyone else were involved – you could imagine being an instant write-off. Get ready for the Labubu movie, un film de Paul King.
Yes, a movie based on 2025’s breakout toy / accessory / bizarre fashion statement – the Labubu doll – is on the way from Sony, and according to The Hollywood Reporter, the studio has snapped up Paul King as director. The Labubu exploded earlier this year as a much-sought-after bag charm, whose initial difficulty to source was part of its appeal; they were surprising high-fashion celeb-status signifiers for a while. The dolls are made by Chinese brand Pop Mart, who will be working with Sony on the adaptation; it is unknown if Labubu creator Kasing Lung will be involved. There is currently no named screenwriter attached to the project.
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What will a Paul King Labubu movie even be, then? It’s hard to imagine, though The LEGO Movie and Barbie proved there can be genuine cultural value – and box office dollars – in mining toy brands as film inspiration. And let’s face it – King has form in bringing fuzzy little creatures to the screen. Here’s hoping we’re in for a 24 carat gold Labubu experience.