Paddington’s Paul King to Helm Live-Action Labubu Film

Paul King, celebrated for his work on Paddington and the recent Wonka, is preparing to bring a new character to the big screen. The director is now attached to a live-action adaptation of Labubu, a toy that has captured the imagination of collectors and children alike over the past year. The project, which is still in its infancy, will see King both directing and producing, working alongside Department M and Wenxin She.

King’s previous films have enjoyed considerable box office success. Wonka, starring Timothée Chalamet, recently took in $635 million worldwide, while the Paddington franchise has amassed nearly $500 million across its first two instalments. King directed both Paddington films and contributed to the screenplay for the third, cementing his reputation for family-friendly storytelling.

Labubu’s Journey from Picture Book to Pop Culture

Labubu, the wide-eyed, furry figure at the heart of this new venture, first appeared a decade ago in a series of illustrated books. Created by Kasing Lung, an artist originally from Hong Kong with strong links to the Netherlands, Labubu’s design draws inspiration from Nordic folklore. The toys are produced exclusively by Pop Mart and are sold in so-called blind boxes, meaning buyers never quite know which version they’ll receive until the packaging is opened.

Although Labubu has only recently become a household name, its quirky charm and element of surprise have helped it achieve viral status. The announcement of a film adaptation comes after Sony Pictures acquired the screen rights in November, signalling a growing interest in bringing popular toys to cinemas.

Film Industry’s Toy Trend Continues

The move to adapt Labubu for the screen fits neatly into a broader trend within the film industry. Recent years have seen a surge in toy-based films, with last year’s Barbie taking over $1 billion at the global box office. This success has prompted studios to explore further adaptations, with Mattel reportedly considering dozens of its own products for future projects, including Hot Wheels and Polly Pocket.

Meanwhile, the team behind Paddington is also working on a feature based on the Mr Men and Little Miss books, further underlining the appetite for stories rooted in childhood favourites. The organisation behind Labubu’s film, fresh from the animated hit K-Pop Demon Hunters, is clearly hoping to replicate that success with another family-oriented title.

What’s Next for Labubu on Screen?

At present, details regarding the plot, cast, and production schedule for the Labubu film remain under wraps. The project is still in the early stages of development, with much yet to be revealed. However, with King at the helm and Sony Pictures backing the venture, expectations are already building for what could become the next big family film phenomenon.