Paul King Moves from Bears to Trending Toys
Paul King is set to direct Sony’s feature adaptation of Labubu, the globally popular designer toy franchise that has surged from niche collectible to cultural phenomenon.
A THR exclusive has announced that the Paddington and Wonka filmmaker will helm the project and produce alongside Department M and producer Wenxin She, with Sony partnering with Pop Mart, the Chinese retailer and brand owner behind Labubu. The film is in early development and does not yet have a writer attached. Sony declined to comment. Because the project is still at the script stage, no release date has been announced, though it could take two to four years or more to reach theaters.
The Rise of Labubu
Created by Hong Kong-born artist Kasing Lung and popularized by Pop Mart’s blind-box sales model, Labubu has become a global collectible sensation. Limited-edition figures often sell for five- and six-figure sums, and celebrity fans, including Blackpink’s Lisa, have helped propel the brand into viral status. The franchise includes multiple characters such as Zimomo, Mokoko and Tycoco, providing a built-in world for storytelling.
King’s Track Record with Family-Friendly Franchises
King’s involvement continues his run of transforming unconventional properties into mainstream hits. He directed and co-wrote the first two Paddington films, which earned widespread critical acclaim and multiple BAFTA nominations, and remains involved in the franchise as a writer and executive producer on Paddington in Peru. His most recent feature, Wonka, starring Timothée Chalamet, grossed $635 million worldwide for Warner Bros.
Other King Projects in Development
In addition to Labubu, King is attached to several other projects: a live-action Prince Charming film for Disney, a potential sequel to Wonka, and previously announced fantasy adaptation Time’s Fool, based on Glyn Maxwell’s novel (a story about a man condemned to eternity alone until he lifts the curse upon him). That project’s production status is unclear.
A Global Brand Meets Hollywood
Sony’s upcoming slate includes Spider‑Man: Brand New Day in 2026 and animated features like Goat from Sony Pictures Animation.
For Pop Mart, Labubu is more than a toy line. The company is expanding globally with retail stores and automated “robo shops,” while also branching into lifestyle products, fashion collaborations, and entertainment content such as animated series.