While the project is still in its early stages, the announcement has already generated excitement among fans of Pop Mart’s toy universe, known for its whimsical, eerie, and adorable characters. The studio recently secured the screen rights and confirmed that the movie is moving into development, although key creative details remain undecided. One of the biggest questions among fans is whether the Labubu film will be animated or live-action. According to multiple entertainment outlets, Sony has not yet determined the filmmaking style, leaving possibilities open for a CGI-driven fantasy, a live-action adventure, or even a hybrid format similar to Paddington or Detective Pikachu. This creative ambiguity reflects the flexibility of Labubu’s universe, which includes a lineup of characters like Zimomo, Mokoko, Tycoco, and more, all potential cast members of the film. Industry insiders expect that the movie could draw heavily from “The Monsters” collection created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung, whose illustrations blend folklore-inspired storytelling with contemporary design. It has also been said that Sony plans on making it an entire franchise rather than just a one-time movie. Fan communities are already buzzing with speculation. Some anticipate that the film may connect to an earlier announced TV animation project involving short-form Labubu episodes, while others predict the movie could arrive between 2027 and 2028, though this remains unconfirmed. What makes the Labubu movie especially timely is the explosive growth of the brand itself. Pop Mart, Labubu’s parent company, has reported rapid expansion, with profits soaring by nearly 400% in the first half of 2025 and revenues tied to Labubu alone crossing $670 million in the same period. The toy’s global frenzy has led to massive demand, long queues for limited-edition drops, and even a thriving resale market, where Labubu figures often sell for several times their original price. However, the popularity comes with challenges. The rise in demand has also fueled a surge in counterfeit Labubu dolls, prompting serious safety and regulatory concerns. In the UK alone, border authorities seized large quantities of fake Labubu merchandise, many posing choking or chemical hazards. Meanwhile, in Ireland, hundreds of “Have a Seat Labubu” toys were recalled for safety reasons. Despite the lack of a confirmed director, writer, or cast, Sony’s acquisition signals a larger plan, developing Labubu into a franchise property with long-term cinematic potential. Early reports suggest that the studio sees Labubu in the same league as toy to film successes like Barbie and The Lego Movie, blending storytelling with a dedicated collector community. For now, the Labubu movie remains a fascinating work in progress, one driven by a global fandom, a booming toy empire, and a character whose charm has leapt far beyond shelves and into the cinematic imagination
Sony Developing Labubu Movie as Pop Mart Phenomenon Goes Global; Animation or Live-Action Still Undecided
