Sony Greenlights Live-Action Labubu Movie as the Viral Toy Leaps to the Big Screen

Labubu, the fanged, elf-like rabbit that has taken pop culture by storm, is officially heading to Hollywood. Sony Pictures has picked up the screen rights to the character, setting the stage for a live-action film that could grow into a full franchise.

Labubu was created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung as part of The Monsters series and produced by Chinese toy giant Pop Mart. Although the figure originally debuted in 2015, the past year has pushed it into new territory. What began as a niche collectible has turned into a global sensation, with fans lining up for drops and trading pieces at staggering resale prices.

A major part of its rise comes from celebrity visibility. K-pop idols and influencers have openly shown off their Labubu collections, sending demand through the roof. The toys are sold in blind boxes, which keeps fans guessing until they open the packaging. That surprise element has fueled a huge secondary market and added a treasure-hunt thrill to the brand.

Sony’s film adaptation is still in its earliest stages. No cast or creative team has been announced, and the studio has not commented on potential plot details. Sources suggest the movie will explore the whimsical, slightly mischievous tone of The Monsters universe, expanding Labubu beyond its collectible roots and introducing it to a much wider audience.

For Sony, the acquisition signals confidence in Labubu’s staying power. The character blends childlike charm with a quirky edge, which could translate into a family-friendly adventure film with plenty of personality. It also highlights Hollywood’s growing interest in Asian-created characters with global cultural impact.

While it may be years before Labubu hops onto cinema screens, the move marks a major step in bringing the beloved figure from collectors’ shelves to moviegoers worldwide.