Sony is officially stepping into the whimsical — and wildly lucrative — world of Labubu. According to a report from The Hollywood Reporter, the studio has secured rights to produce a film based on the cult-favorite dolls that have sparked a global collecting craze. Still in its earliest stages, the project has yet to decide on animation or live action, and no creative team has been announced. For now, Sony remains silent, but the buzz is already building.
The rise of Labubu has been anything but ordinary. Created in 2015 by Hong Kong-born artist Kasing Lung, the quirky character lived quietly in niche art circles until Pop Mart acquired its production and distribution rights in 2019. The real explosion came when Blackpink’s Lisa casually turned Labubu into a fashion accessory, sending demand skyrocketing around the world. Suddenly, the once-underground figure became a high-demand collectible with fans lining up — both physically and digitally — for a chance to pull one from a blind box.
That scarcity-driven frenzy has turned Labubu into a financial powerhouse. Rare editions command thousands on resale markets, while limited artworks and collaborations have hit six-figure auction prices. The “blind box” model continues to drive repeat purchases, creating a relentless cycle of hype and anticipation. It’s a formula that’s paying off: Pop Mart reported a massive 204% year-on-year revenue surge in the first half of 2025, reaching US$1.9 billion.
For Sony, Labubu presents more than a movie — it’s a potential multimedia franchise. The character’s built-in fandom mirrors the kind of cross-market appeal that powered hits like The Lego Movie and Barbie, both of which transformed beloved toys into cultural and box-office juggernauts. If handled right, Labubu could be the next breakout character to jump from collectible shelves to cinematic stardom.
