Pop Mart Teams With Sony for Paul King’s ‘Labubu’ Movie, Steven Levenson to Co-Write

Why It Matters

The collaboration transforms a successful collectible IP into a cinematic franchise, opening new revenue streams and expanding global brand reach. It also signals Hollywood’s increasing focus on adaptable, cross‑media properties with built‑in fan bases.

Key Takeaways

• Pop Mart partners with Sony for Labulu film adaptation.
• Paul King directs, Steven Levenson co-writes script.
• Film will blend live-action with CGI animation.
• Labubu IP celebrates 10‑year anniversary, global collectible success.
• King’s recent “Wonka” earned $635M worldwide.

Pulse Analysis

Pop Mart’s move to partner with Sony Pictures reflects a broader industry trend of leveraging strong collectible IPs for film adaptations. Labubu, born from a series of picture books and now a global icon, exemplifies how strategic curation can turn niche art toys into cultural touchstones. By extending the brand into cinema, Pop Mart not only diversifies its revenue but also deepens consumer engagement, turning fans of the physical products into an audience for narrative storytelling.

The creative helm is in capable hands: Paul King, whose direction of "Paddington" and the blockbuster "Wonka" demonstrated a knack for blending heart‑warming family appeal with visual flair, will direct the Labubu film. Co‑writer Steven Levenson brings theatrical credibility from his Tony‑winning work on "Dear Evan Hansen" and recent film adaptations. Their combined expertise suggests a hybrid live‑action/CGI approach that can preserve Labubu’s whimsical charm while delivering a spectacle suitable for global theatrical release, aligning with current audience appetite for high‑concept, family‑friendly adventures.

For Sony, the partnership offers a ready‑made, internationally recognized property that can be marketed across merchandise, streaming, and theme‑park tie‑ins. The film’s success could unlock a franchise pipeline—sequels, spin‑offs, and expanded licensing—mirroring the lucrative cycles seen with other toy‑to‑screen adaptations. Moreover, the project underscores the growing importance of IP‑centric development strategies, where studios prioritize properties with pre‑existing fan bases to mitigate risk and accelerate market penetration.