Sony Pictures Entertainment and POP MART have officially announced a collaboration to develop a feature film centered on the beloved character, LABUBU. This cinematic endeavor is planned as a hybrid, blending CGI and live-action elements to bring the unique world of LABUBU to the big screen.
The project was first revealed in Paris by LABUBU’s creator, Kasing Lung, alongside acclaimed filmmaker Paul King. Known for his work on the successful *Paddington* films and *Wonka*, King is set to produce and direct the movie. He will also co-write the screenplay with Steven Levenson, recognized for his contributions to *Dear Evan Hansen* and *tick, tick… BOOM!*
Kasing Lung will serve as an executive producer. The producing team includes Michael Schaefer, known for “The Martian,” and Wenxin She, whose credits include *A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood*. Brittany Morrissey will oversee the project for Sony Pictures.
LABUBU originated from Kasing Lung’s “The Monsters Series” books, first introduced in 2015. Since then, the character has grown into a global phenomenon with a full line of products from POP MART, gaining significant popularity in recent months.
The production boasts a highly recognized creative team. Paul King’s extensive career includes multiple BAFTA nominations for his *Paddington* movies and the impressive box office success of *Wonka*. Steven Levenson’s theatrical and screenwriting prowess is evident in his nominations for *Dear Evan Hansen*, *tick, tick… BOOM!*, and *Fosse/Verdon*.
Fans are eager to see what Sony and POP MART will deliver with this adaptation, which early impressions suggest might evoke the style of earlier CGI/live-action hybrid films like *The Smurfs*.