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21351 Ideas Disney Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas Review

By Barry Kay (SAFOLs Brick Boss, CapeLUG Member, Batman … Ssshhhh!)

The Ideas 21351 Disney Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas set is an exciting and intricately detailed build that offers fans of both LEGO® and Tim Burton’s 1993 film a chance to recreate iconic scenes from the beloved holiday classic. With 2,193 pieces, the set masterfully captures key locations from Halloween Town, combining aesthetic accuracy with LEGO®’s signature brick-based creativity. Priced at R3,799, this set provides a rewarding and intricate build, appealing both to collectors and LEGO® enthusiasts.

Set Overview and Design

The LEGO® set centers around three major scenes from The Nightmare Before Christmas: Jack Skellington’s house, the iconic Spiral Hill, and Halloween Town’s Town Hall. The designers, through careful scaling and layout, managed to condense these locations into a display-friendly model while still maintaining the film’s distinctive gothic atmosphere. The set’s gothic and eerie charm, characteristic of Tim Burton’s style, is rendered beautifully through a variety of LEGO® building techniques and parts.

The design of Jack Skellington’s house is one of the most visually striking components. Constructed in three distinct segments, it features a crooked, winding path leading to a set of gates guarded by cat statues, with many Halloween-themed decorative elements along the way. The building captures the dilapidated, surreal look from the film, with hinged sections and angled plates that recreate the house’s warped architecture. Inside, builders will find Jack’s workshop, complete with a chalkboard featuring his Christmas formula, a detail that fans of the film will recognize instantly. The upper floors hold hidden Christmas wreaths and other seasonal decorations, adding a festive twist to the typically spooky aesthetic.

Spiral Hill, the iconic curling mound featured in the movie’s most memorable scenes, is also well-executed. LEGO® achieved the hill’s twisted design using curved slopes and angled elements, with a Technic pin holding a plastic piece to represent the giant yellow moon in the background. Although the use of non-traditional LEGO® elements for the moon may raise some eyebrows among purists, the effect is visually stunning and faithful to the movie’s look. The graveyard at the base of Spiral Hill is filled with gravestones and various references to Sally’s potion ingredients, providing an immersive environment for the minifigures.

The Town Hall, another central feature of the set, is recreated with great attention to detail. The structure’s widening design, characteristic of the buildings in Halloween Town, is complemented by various decorative elements such as a Halloween banner and a Christmas countdown clock. The exterior, with cobblestone paths and a gnarled, posable tree, adds to the eerie atmosphere. Inside the Town Hall, builders will find Jack’s podium and several other fun details, such as skulls and candlesticks, giving the building an authentic Halloween Town feel. The podium is removable, allowing for easy access to the limited but well-detailed interior.

Building Techniques

One of the most impressive aspects of this LEGO® set is its use of advanced building techniques. Jack’s house, for example, incorporates hinged and angled pieces to achieve the building’s twisted, asymmetrical shape. LEGO®’s designers skilfully integrated Technic elements into the traditional System bricks to handle some of the more difficult angles, such as the roof panels and the coiling shape of Spiral Hill. The mixture of System and Technic bricks highlights the set’s sophisticated design and creates a visually striking model.

LEGO®’s use of irregularity throughout the set helps to evoke the off-kilter aesthetic of the movie. For example, the slime-filled fountain in front of the Town Hall is built using a mixture of translucent green studs and slopes, which are arranged in a way that makes the slime appear to be bubbling. The irregular angles of the fountain’s basin and the uneven layout of the cobblestone path contribute to the unsettling, eerie atmosphere of the set.

The set’s use of colour is also noteworthy. Dark grey, black, and muted colours dominate the palette, reflecting Halloween Town’s gothic and grim aesthetic. However, the addition of bright green elements in the fountain and the Christmas-themed decorations in Jack’s house offer a nice contrast, balancing the darkness with the whimsy that characterizes The Nightmare Before Christmas.

Minifigures and Characters

The set includes a variety of minifigures that represent some of the film’s most beloved characters. Jack Skellington is the star of the set, with his long, gangly frame brought to life using LEGO®’s taller minifigure leg elements. Jack’s iconic black and white striped suit is printed onto his torso and legs, and his face has been specially designed to capture his skeletal grin.

Sally, Jack’s love interest, also receives an updated minifigure design. Her patchwork dress and stitched-together appearance are faithfully recreated with intricate printing on both the torso and legs. Zero, Jack’s ghostly dog, is represented with a new figure that includes a trans-clear support piece to give him the appearance of floating, just like in the film.

The set also includes Lock, Shock, and Barrel, the mischievous trick-or-treaters who help kidnap Santa “Sandy” Claus. Their minifigures are cleverly designed, with double-sided heads that show their signature mischievous expressions. These characters come with a brick-built walking bathtub, a fun accessory that adds to the playability of the set. Finally, the Mayor, with his two-faced head, is included as a brick-built figure, providing another fun character from the film to complete Halloween Town’s ensemble.

Challenges and Criticisms

While the LEGO® The Nightmare Before Christmas set is a stunning display piece, it does have some limitations. One challenge is the compactness of the structures. For example, the interior of the Town Hall is relatively small, limiting the potential for character placement and interaction. Although this is understandable given the constraints of translating animated locations into LEGO® form, it may slightly limit the playability for some builders.

The use of stickers rather than printed elements for key details, such as Jack’s chalkboard and the gravestones in the graveyard, might be a downside for some fans who prefer printed pieces. Additionally, the structural stability of Jack’s house, especially the removable roof sections, can feel somewhat fragile, making the set better suited for display rather than frequent handling.

The absence of Oogie Boogie, one of the film’s central villains, is another noticeable omission. While the set includes most of the key characters, many fans would have appreciated a brick-built Oogie Boogie figure to complete the cast.

Conclusion

Overall, LEGO® Ideas 21351 The Nightmare Before Christmas is a fantastic set that offers a highly detailed and engaging building experience. From its complex use of building techniques to its faithful recreation of iconic scenes from the movie, this set is a must-have for fans of the film and LEGO® collectors alike. While it may have some limitations in terms of playability and character selection, its display value and nostalgic charm make it a standout addition to the LEGO® Ideas lineup. Whether you’re a fan of the film, a seasoned LEGO® builder, or both, this set is sure to impress and bring a touch of Halloween Town to your LEGO® collection.

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76274 Batman with the Batmobile vs. Harley Quinn and Mr. Freeze Review

By Clinton Matos (SAFOLs member)

This set is arguably the most divisive Batmobile that LEGO® has ever put out. This latest entry into the long line of minifigure scale Batmobiles has made the bold choice to ditch Black (and very very dark grey) for Dark Blue to better suit its depiction in Batman: The Animated Series. On top of this the minifigure selection is not what many wanted and there are some other oddities that make it stick out.

With the set finally in hand we can address all of this, but first let’s get it built. Funnily enough this is actually the third time I am building this set. I have made it twice before digitally using the free instructions that LEGO® posts online. On a side note, many LEGO® fans still don’t know that the company posts online PDF instructions for most new sets the day they release. Checking out instructions of sets is not only a great way to learn new building techniques for free, but it may also convince you to pick up a set to experience the build with real bricks. 

As to why I was building it digitally, it was an experiment to see if it could be rebuilt in Black instead of Dark Blue. More on that later.

Back to those real bricks and our review copy sent over by LEGO® came with four numbered paper bags but, of course, as LEGO® is still in a transitory period for bags this isn’t a guarantee for all buyers. There’s also a small instruction book and a sticker sheet.

Getting to build the Batmobile and it’s surprisingly simple. This version of the Batmobile isn’t particularly known for any outlandish shapes so it fits in well with LEGO’s blocky design language.

There’s very clever use of wedge plates in this set to make the back wider than the front for a more arrow-like, sleek design, and to replicate the iconic grill of this Batmobile. This grill makes use of black jumper tiles to make a half stud offset, so that the grill is angled back.

In the image above you can see this construction as well as some other tricks that the build has in store, such as the mechanism to move the back exhaust flame with a simple two gear system. You can also see, over the back axle, that hinge plates are used but they are locked down and can’t move.

This is not only a clever way to create thin overhangs, but moving hinges are used elsewhere in the set (you can see them used to create an angled intake right in front of that back axle). This is something LEGO® often does as it’s cheaper and easier – in terms of the production process – to reuse the same type of pieces in a set – if hinges were already needed for the angled intake, why not use them in other places in the build? It’s all very clever.

Arguably the most impressive part of the entire build are the wheel arches. These are built upside down using arch bricks and placed stud-side down with clips. You can see the right-hand side arch subassembly being attached in the image below, with the left hand side version already in place.

Now some may ask why this was done, as LEGO® already makes several inverted arch bricks that maybe could have been used. Well again it comes back to the manufacturer efficiency mentioned with the hinges – LEGO® can’t make both regular and inverted arches for every size, so this is a good way to show people it’s not always needed.

These front arches also highlight another part of the build I really love: the optional stud shooters. Yes, I know adult fans cringe when play functions are mentioned, but this set’s real trick is that the stud shooters are not only completely optional, but they can also be used as minifig weapons.

The stud shooters connect with a bar – you can see an empty bar hole in the front fenders – and minifigures can simply grab onto them.

For kids this opens up so much play possibility. Do we give a stud shooter to Harley Quinn and Mr. Freeze so they can better battle the Batmobile? (See the picture below for that) or does Batman get to keep them when he hops out of the vehicle, so he has some extra firepower? Yes yes Batman doesn’t use guns, just imagine they’re something else.

For me this is the ultimate in shooting functionality for sets: completely optional for those who don’t want it, minimal parts usage not to eat up the parts budget and multiple ways to play for the kids.

Once the Batmobile is finished the last part to build is the display stand which has a stickered plaque with some details about the vehicle. The other stickers in the set are used on the front bumper as headlights and inside the cabin to make controls and a screen for Batman.

Here we must pause because the inclusion of this plaque and display stand is strange. To explain why, here are the last three such sets released before this one, in reverse chronological order of release.

  • 76224: Batmobile: Batman vs. The Joker
  • 76239: Batmobile Tumbler: Scarecrow Showdown
  • 76188: Batman Classic TV Series Batmobile

Of those three only 76188, the classic TV series version, included a display base with plaque. On top of this, the builds are almost identical save for an axle in the older one for better stability. I actually would have liked something like that on the new base, as the four-stud connection can be a bit loose.

While we don’t know why the other two Batmobiles didn’t get one of these bases (we’d again wager it was due to parts budget) it’s just a missed opportunity to make LEGO® Batmobiles something of a series that are all connected – and can be proudly displayed – with these bases. It’s also just strange to bring it back now after two other Batmobiles without them.

As for the completed Batmobile itself here, the final model is a real looker. There’s no real surprise to seeing it in real life compared to renders and marketing pictures. If the Dark Blue bothered, you in those pictures we don’t think the real thing will change your mind.

For me, I really like what’s on offer here. The combination of bold, blocky lines and some key curvature with the aforementioned wedges and some “wings” on the back give it a very slick look that leaves little to be desired.

As an avid LEGO® Batmobile collector, I am happy to have this one in my collection, even if it does stick out a little with its colour.

What I am less sure on is the minifigures. The Batman we get here is the same one included in the much more expensive 76271: Batman: The Animated Series Gotham City, but has a rubber rubber cape instead of the starched fabric cape the comes in 76271. Despite the inflexibility of the cape, Batman can still fit inside of the Batmobile cockpit as there’s a huge amount of empty space in there.

Our resident Batman minifig expert at SAFOLs, Barry Kay, is a fan of this version and how true it looks to the animated show.

But Batman isn’t the problem, it’s Harley Quinn and Mr. Freeze. Harley Quinn is included in so many LEGO® DC Comics sets that we really didn’t need another on here. This version looks close enough to the show, I suppose, but it’s very underwhelming after so many versions of this character. Mr. Freeze is more interesting, but his design is very boring here. Some arm printing and at least dual moulded legs to give him blue boots would have gone a long way to making this version not only a better minifigure, but also closer to the show.

As a total package I do think this set is worth your time and money. The Dark Blue is only distracting for a while and the minifigure selection is just on the boring side if nothing else. The build is simple enough with some key highlights and it may be the new gold standard for how to do stud shooters.

Does it come in black?

For those who dislike the Dark Blue colour I have some news: you can build this Batmobile in black.

All the dark blue colours are available in Black so it’s just a matter of sourcing your own parts from your inventory or Bricklinking until you have everything required.

Follow the instructions replacing the Dark Blue pieces with Black and you’re good to go. 

I have a separate article on this matter including a parts list with everything you need, suggestions to make up for the lack of stickers and more advice for the project.

Read that article here.

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76273 Batman™ Construction Figure and Bat-Pod Bike Review

By Barry Kay (SAFOLs Brick Boss, CapeLUG Member, Batman … Ssshhhh!)

LEGO® has always excelled at bringing iconic characters and vehicles from popular culture to life through intricate and imaginative sets. The LEGO® DC Comics Superheroes Batman™ Construction Figure and Bat-Pod Bike set (76273) is no exception, combining the dynamic presence of Batman with the sleek design of the Bat-Pod Bike. This set captures the essence of the Dark Knight while offering an engaging and satisfying building experience for both seasoned LEGO® enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Set Overview

The set features two primary components: the Batman construction figure and the Bat-Pod Bike. The set is designed for builders aged 8 and up, making it accessible to younger builders while still offering complexity and detail that can be appreciated by older fans. With a total of 713 pieces, the set strikes a balance between a manageable build time and a detailed, rewarding finished product.

Batman Construction Figure

The Batman construction figure stands as a testament to the LEGO® designers’ ability to translate iconic characters into brick-built forms. Standing at approximately 10 inches tall, the figure captures Batman’s imposing presence with an impressive level of detail and articulation.

The construction of the Batman figure uses a combination of traditional LEGO® System bricks and Technic elements, providing a robust and poseable final product. Key building techniques include:

1. Ball and Socket Joints: These joints are used extensively throughout the figure, particularly in the shoulders, elbows, hips, and knees. This allows for a wide range of motion and poses, enhancing playability and display options. The use of these joints ensures that Batman can be posed in dynamic stances, such as crouching or readying a Batarang.

2. SNOT (Studs Not On Top): This technique is used to create smooth surfaces and detailed armor plating on Batman’s suit. By attaching bricks and plates at unconventional angles, builders can achieve the angular, tactical look characteristic of Batman’s costume.

3. Layering and Greebling: To capture the texture and intricate design of Batman’s armor, the build incorporates layers of plates and small detail pieces (greebles). This technique adds depth and realism to the figure, making it visually striking.

The Batman figure’s design faithfully represents the character’s appearance from the DC Comics universe. Key design elements include:

– Cowl and Cape: Batman’s iconic cowl is sculpted using specialized elements that seamlessly integrate with the figure’s head. The cape, made from soft fabric, adds a touch of realism and completes the Dark Knight’s silhouette.

– Chest Emblem: The Bat emblem on Batman’s chest is prominently displayed using printed elements, ensuring it remains sharp and recognizable.

– Utility Belt: The utility belt is constructed using a combination of small plates and tiles, creating a detailed and functional-looking accessory.


Bat-Pod Bike

The Bat-Pod Bike is a sleek, futuristic vehicle that perfectly complements the Batman figure. With its streamlined design and attention to detail, the Bat-Pod is a standout component of this set.

The construction of the Bat-Pod Bike involves several advanced building techniques that contribute to its sturdy structure and realistic appearance:

1. Technic Framework: The core of the Bat-Pod is built using Technic beams and connectors. This ensures the vehicle is robust and can withstand play while maintaining a sleek profile.

2. SNOT: Like the Batman figure, the Bat-Pod utilizes SNOT techniques to achieve smooth, angular surfaces. This is particularly evident in the bike’s bodywork, where plates are attached at various angles to create a cohesive design.

3. Wheels and Suspension: The Bat-Pod features large, rubberized wheels that provide excellent traction and stability. The suspension system, built using Technic shock absorbers, allows for realistic movement and enhances playability.

The design of the Bat-Pod Bike is inspired by its appearance in the Christopher Nolan Batman films, particularly “The Dark Knight” trilogy. Key design elements and functionalities include:

– Aerodynamic Shape: The bike’s body is streamlined and angular, capturing the aggressive and futuristic look of the Bat-Pod. The use of dark grey and black bricks, along with transparent elements for lights, adds to the overall aesthetic.

– Control Handles and Foot Pegs: The Bat-Pod features handlebars and foot pegs that can accommodate the Batman figure, allowing for realistic and immersive play. The figure can be securely positioned on the bike, ready to patrol the streets of Gotham City.

– Weaponry and Gadgets: True to Batman’s gadget-laden persona, the Bat-Pod is equipped with functional elements such as stud shooters, representing the vehicle’s weapon systems. These add an element of interactive play, allowing builders to engage in imaginative crime-fighting scenarios.



Building Experience

One of the highlights of this set is the building experience itself. The set provides a satisfying challenge that engages builders without being overly complex. The instructions are clear and well-organized, guiding builders through the assembly process step by step.

Display and Playability

Once completed, the set offers excellent display and play value.

The Batman figure, with its dynamic posing options and detailed design, makes for an impressive display piece. Whether positioned in a heroic stance or ready for action on the Bat-Pod, the figure adds a striking visual element to any LEGO® collection.

For younger builders and fans of Batman, the set provides ample play opportunities. The poseable figure and functional Bat-Pod encourage imaginative play and storytelling. Builders can recreate scenes from the comics and movies or invent their own adventures in Gotham City.

Conclusion

The LEGO® DC Comics Superheroes Batman Construction Figure and Bat-Pod Bike set (76273) is a remarkable addition to the LEGO® DC Comics line. Combining advanced building techniques, attention to detail, and a high level of playability, this set captures the essence of Batman in a way that both builders and fans will appreciate.

Whether you are a seasoned LEGO® builder looking for a new challenge or a Batman enthusiast eager to add a unique piece to your collection, this set delivers on all fronts. The blend of traditional LEGO® System and Technic elements results in a robust, poseable figure and a sleek, functional vehicle, making it a must-have for any LEGO® and DC Comics fan.

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42179 Technic Planet Earth and Moon in Orbit Review

Review by Ben Groot (SAFOLs Member, CapeLUG EXCO)

Having been interested in astronomy for most of my life, when I saw that the LEGO® Group was launching an orrery, albeit in smaller scale, I just had to get my hands on the set. The question is, does this set do justice to its name and the excitement of seeing the earth and moon in orbit around the sun?

Firstly, it must be kept in mind that this set is aimed at ages 10+, and one therefore should not expect the sophistication that goes along with an 18+ set. Having said that, the build requires one to focus on getting the gears right, but it was easy enough for my 9-year-old daughter to enjoy lending a hand with some parts. Secondly, with this being LEGO® parts and gears, one would expect that the orbits would not be very accurate. It seems as if different reviewers obtained different results, but, on my build, it takes about 10 rotations of the handle for the moon to complete one full orbit of the earth, but it did rotate approximately 13 times around the earth (months) during one full rotation of the earth around the sun (a year). Not terribly accurate, but still reasonable, and the proportions are correct, nonetheless.

Turning to the build itself, the box comes with four of the new paper bags. Most of the bags, as usual, contained smaller bags inside, although, curiously, bag 3 contained a plastic bag. The box also contains a plastic bag containing the earth parts, the four wheels used as a base, and the two dark grey rings. The two halves of the sun globe, the two large orange rings and a small sticker sheet are all loose in the box.

Bag 1, naturally, starts out with the base of the set. It is a fairly quick and easy build and took no longer than 20 minutes to complete. Interestingly, though, not all the components on the four feet are symmetrical once completed, as I have come to expect from LEGO®. More about this later.

Bag 2 completes the base and ends off with the stickers for the months of the year being applied. In all, there are only 10 stickers to be applied, six of which contain the months of the year, and the remaining four showing the moon phases. This is sure to please many builders. The stickers were not too difficult to align properly.

When building bag 3, the rest of the gear mechanism driving the arm on which the earth and moon are situated, are completed. Whilst building this part, I thought that I had an error, as the arm was moving freely, so I rebuilt it three times! Turns out I just had to be patient, the mechanism is soon connected and properly fixed.

Finally, getting to bag 4, the mechanism on which the earth and moon rotates, is built. Once this is done, the entire set is put together. In all, total building time is approximately 90 minutes, but this would of course depend on your individual build speed.

With a set like this, there are very few repetitive builds, which is quite nice. The four wheels, two orange circle beams, and the earth and sun globes are unique to this set. The set also contains quite a few of the newer beams with holes, which are welcome in any Technics collection. In all, with a part count of 526, the set has a very useful number of parts that can be used elsewhere. The printed earth globe attracted some criticism, but I was quite satisfied with it, especially considering the relatively small scale. I particularly liked the fact that quite a bit of the mechanism as well as many gears are exposed – it gives one a sense of movement, and shows the workings of the model, something I always enjoyed. Contrary to what I expected, the movement is very smooth. The roller and indicator for the months roll smoothly on the orange rings. The model is also very stable and does not seem to want to tilt.

Coming to my dislikes about the set, unfortunately there are quite a few. Firstly, there is no provision for a motor to be added to the hand-operated lever. I added a motor to the set, but it is quite clear that it will have to be geared down quite a bit, as the earth is spinning very fast, and the entire effect of the model is then lost. Although adding a few gears and a motor is not undoable, it will require a fairly big change to this part of the model.

Secondly, the model does not seem to have been finished properly: on at least two places a part of an axle sticks out, and on one of the “feet” parts of two pins are sticking out. If one looks at the box, these issues are shown on the photos, so it is not simply poor building on my part. This is unfortunate, as I believe that these issues could fairly easily have been resolved.

Lastly, curiously, there is a mistake apparent only when considering the set from a southern hemisphere perspective: the pointer showing the month corresponds to the northern hemisphere seasons, but not to the seasons in the southern hemisphere. I therefore moved the pointer on my build to be adjacent to the roller, and then the seasons for the southern hemisphere correspond with the month indicated.  

 In all, this is still a very enjoyable build, and a great educational tool. My daughter was able to see day and night, phases of the moon, as well as the seasons.

The set currently retails just under R1 500. In my view, this is good value for a highly enjoyable build with great display potential. It is sure to attract attention in any display, living room or LEGO® room. So, if you are into a bit of astronomy, or you have children in primary school, this set will, in my view, be an excellent addition to your collection.

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76419 Hogwarts Castle and Grounds Review

By Rakesh Gosai (SAFOLs Brick Deputy)

Hey there SAFOLs! How do you get into Hogwarts? Through the Dumble-door.

Brace yourselves for the exciting news about the 76419 Hogwarts Castle and Grounds set. It showcases a super cool micro scale version of Hogwarts Castle!

This compact model takes inspiration from the LEGO® Architecture series, and let me tell you, it doesn’t hold back on the awesomeness. With 2,660 pieces, it manages to capture the essence of Hogwarts without taking up all your space or emptying your wallet.

I mean, let’s be real here, not everyone can afford the epic 71043 Hogwarts Castle set that costs a small fortune. LEGO® knows that, and they’ve heard our pleas. They’ve created this more practical and affordable option that still looks absolutely stunning.

The design itself is on point, with all the iconic towers and spires of Hogwarts beautifully represented. But that’s not all – they’ve also included references to key moments and places in the Harry Potter series. From the Chamber of Secrets to the Durmstrang Ship, the Weasley’s Ford Anglia stuck in the Whomping Willow, and even the Beauxbatons Carriage landing, you’ll find all the magical details you love.

Opening the box, you’ll find lots and lots of numbered bags, this was a very full box and includes two very thick instruction manuals, they look beautiful and throughout the instructions, there’s detailed info about each section of Hogwarts.

In this set, the Castle looks like it is coming out of the water with all of the White Caps around it. I do really like it I think it’s an amazing display piece. The castle build, the rock work behind it and throughout the build is excellent, you can see some Crystal pieces and sand green being used to represent trees as well as ice cream cone pieces and dark green pieces. Very good looking at the bottom of the build. The Boathouse with 12 pieces looks really good! This set has all printed tiles!!

There’s a couple of Pathways leading away from the boathouse, one in a tan colour and one in a dark tan colour. The dark tan leads to Beauxbatons Carriage flying through the sky and The Great Hall, you can see that Shield piece is printed with a clock, and just below that we have the printed doorway and a courtyard. The Great Hall overall just looks phenomenal, and it’s built at a really cool angle, just to the right of that we have the Grand Tower where you would find Dumbledore’s office.

The back side of the Great Hall there are printed window pieces, with more trees and a pathway leading into another large building and Courtyard area. There’s a bridge with a small stream of water underneath it, leading across to the next section where you’ll find some very nice, printed window pieces. The Astronomy Tower which also looks pretty great on the side, although the side of it with all the holes looks a little bit weird, I think this needs to be tweaked.

I really found the underneath of the build very strange as I am used to building on a baseplate and this set does not use one! They have instead used plates, maybe something for me to change at a later date.

If you’re into minifigures, this set comes with an exclusive Architect of Hogwarts Minifigure. This guy is dressed to impress, with a snazzy pearl gold outfit. Plus, can we take a moment to appreciate his new beard? It really grows on you!

All in all, LEGO® has really went all out in designing this set. I had the chance to see it up close AND build it, trust me, Harry Potter fans are going to be over the moon with this Pottercularly version of Hogwarts Castle. Whether you’re a collector or just a fan of all things magical, this set is a must-have.

Head on out to your closest LEGO® store and be sure to use the spell Accio to summon this set!

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31137 Creator 3-in-1 Adorable Dogs Review

By Rakesh Gosai (SAFOLs Brick Deputy)

I recently got my hands on the LEGO® Creator 3-in-1 Adorable Dogs (31137) set, and let me tell you, it’s pretty paw-some! As someone who has a pet dog AND loves animals, this set caught my eye with its cute doggy designs and fun extras. Plus, you never know what cool building tricks or pieces you might discover along the way, right?

What’s Inside and How Much?

This set comes with 475 pieces and is priced between R385.00 and R499.00. Not bad at all considering the bang for your buck! It’s always nice when you feel like you’re getting more than what you paid for.

The Fun Stuff

Now, let’s dive into the good stuff. This set lets you build not just the adorable pups but also doggy essentials like a food bowl, chew toys, and even a magic leash. That’s pretty cool, right? Plus, there are some unique pieces thrown in, like a Black elastic wire that’s usually hard to come by.

The Doggy Crew

When it comes to the pups, you’ve got quite the lineup – from a Labrador Golden Retriever to a Beagle, a Poodle, and more. While the building process can get a bit same-old, same-old, it’s a neat way to learn the ropes and get creative with customizations. The dogs turn out cute, but maybe a bit more puppy-like than full-grown doggo vibes.

The Final Bark

In a nutshell, this set is a hit or miss depending on your love for dogs. Kids are sure to have a blast with the simple builds and cute designs. But if dogs aren’t your thing, it might not fetch your interest as much. Despite some repetitiveness, the set offers a good mix of fun and educational value, making it a solid choice for dog enthusiasts and LEGO® lovers alike.

So, if you’re looking to add a touch of puppy love to your LEGO® collection, the Creator 3-in1 Adorable Dogs (31137) set could be just the tail-wagging addition you need!

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21345 Ideas Polaroid OneStep SX-70 Camera Review

By Barry Kay (SAFOLs Brick Boss, CapeLUG Member, Batman … Ssshhhh!)

Introduction:

As an experienced LEGO® builder and avid collector, I was thrilled when the LEGO® Ideas 21345 Polaroid OneStep SX-70 Camera set was announced. Combining the charm of a vintage Polaroid camera with the creative possibilities of LEGO® building, this set promised to be a unique addition to my collection. In this comprehensive review, I will delve into the intricate details of the build process, the design elements, and the overall experience of constructing and admiring this nostalgic masterpiece.

Packaging and Unboxing:

Inside the box there are the usual numbered bags to facilitate a smooth building process. The instruction manual, featuring clear and concise steps, complements the packaging with its high-quality visuals and a brief history of the Polaroid camera.

Building Process:

The set consists of 1,203 pieces. There are Technic elements used in the camera’s structure to add a layer of complexity to the build and are reminiscent of the intricate mechanics within the actual Polaroid camera. Assembling the folding bellows mechanism was a particular highlight, showcasing the designer’s ingenuity in recreating real-world functionalities.

The attention to detail extends to the colour palette, with a mix of classic black, white, and a hint of beige to emulate the vintage Polaroid aesthetic. The use of specialized pieces, such as the printed Polaroid logo tile and the unique shutter button, adds authenticity to the model. The build also incorporates clever building techniques to recreate the curves and contours of the camera, capturing its iconic silhouette.

Design Elements:

One of the standout features of the set is its commitment to authenticity. The finished Polaroid OneStep SX-70 Camera is a faithful recreation of the original, complete with a foldable design, viewfinder, and a detailed film ejection slot. The attention to detail in replicating the camera’s features is a testament to the designer’s dedication to creating realistic and immersive models.

The printed elements, including the Polaroid logo and the iconic rainbow stripe, are of the highest quality. The decision to use printed parts rather than stickers enhances the overall aesthetics and ensures a durable finish. The details extend to the viewfinder, where a transparent piece allows you to peer inside, adding an extra layer of realism.

Functionality:

This set not only captures the essence of the vintage camera but also incorporates interactive elements that elevate the overall experience. The folding mechanism is fully functional, allowing you to collapse the camera just like the real thing. The film ejection slot is a thoughtful addition, providing a playful touch that pays homage to the instant photography experience.

Furthermore, the camera’s viewfinder is adjustable, enabling you to position it at different angles for added display flexibility. This attention to functionality enhances the set’s playability and makes it a great addition to one’s collection.

Display and Presentation:

Upon completing the set, I found myself admiring at the finished model. The Polaroid OneStep SX-70 Camera exudes a sense of nostalgia that transcends its LEGO® form. The set comes with a sturdy display stand, featuring a printed plaque with the set’s name and the LEGO® Ideas logo. This stand elevates the camera, allowing it to be showcased as the centrepiece of any LEGO® collection.

The compact size of the model makes it suitable for display on shelves, desks, or even alongside other LEGO® camera sets. The attention-grabbing design and vibrant colour scheme ensure that it stands out in any display setting, making it a conversation starter for those who appreciate both LEGO® craftsmanship and vintage photography.

Conclusion:

The LEGO® Ideas 21345 Polaroid OneStep SX-70 Camera set is a well-crafted tribute to both the world of instant photography and the art of LEGO® building. From the carefully designed packaging to the nostalgic design elements and the functional folding mechanism, every aspect of this set reflects LEGO®’s commitment to quality and creativity. Whether you’re an experienced LEGO® collector, a photography enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates a trip down memory lane, the LEGO® Ideas 21345 Polaroid OneStep SX-70 Camera is a must-have addition to your collection.

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41757 Friends Botanical Garden Review

Review by Anne-Marie Wolfaardt (SAFOLs Members, CapeLUG Members)

This is one of the most beautiful LEGO® sets I have ever built. The LEGO® Friends Botanical Garden set is elegant and can be used in any LEGO® City. I loved building it.

The set has 1072 pieces and 3 LEGO® Friends Mini-dolls.

Recommended age for the set is 12+, which means it caters for more advanced builders so ensure you some advance building skills.

The box already shows some of the fauna and flora that will be created in the set and their botanical names. Inside the box is the instruction booklet, six bags and a small sticker sheet.

The three LEGO® Friends characters are:

  • Liann, the artistic skater, comes with a sketchbook and pen.
  • Adi’s apron shows she works at the botanical garden.
  • Niko, their friend from high school, has a camera and selfie stick, although I am not sure how he can take pictures with the selfie stick if his phone is in a messaging app 😊

I love the coral and yellow colours used on the Liann’s and Adi’s tops.

On page 2 and 3 of the instruction manual you get a guide to some of the fauna and flora used in the build.

Bag 1 builds 2 mini-dolls, a picnic blanket with accessories and the pond.

  • Building the pond was very interesting.  The design use to build the pond can be used when making MILS system, and I will surely use this technique in future builds. There are 2 koi fish printed 1×2 tiles and a bright green frog that you can see through the light blue tiles of the pond.  The pond is rounded off with some tan tiles and is decorated with ducks and lily pads that makes the pond very colourful.

Bag 2 builds the last mini-doll, waterfall, and the start of the building.

  • The waterfall is beautiful, and the design is very simple but so effective.  Inside this part of the building are the succulents and cacti.  You also build a seating area that will surround a tree, later in the built. 

Bag 3 continues with the opposite side of the building. 

  • On this side we have all the other exotic plants that makes the botanical garden beautiful. The creative use of parts to make the plants is amazing.  The Bird of Paradise uses a spiky orange headpiece, the nepenthes use bright green saxophone, and the rafflesia uses red spiky shoulder pads.

Bag 4 continues with the building and adds some more plants that hang in the air. 

  • We also build a dome over the plants, and it looks so fantastic.  In my opinion, I think they missed a 1×4 white tile to finish off where the dome is connected.

Bag 5 starts with the finishing touches of the first floor of the building as well as the water fountain on the roof.

Bag 6 has all the trees that are added to the building. 

  • The trees are so beautiful and just gives the botanical gardens that finishing touches that makes for a great build. The park bench by the entrance where visitors can sit is unique because of the use of the open mouth black snakes for the framework.

The dome is a very eye-catching fixture. I enjoyed building the structure that suspends the 4 butterflies that is attached to the dome.

The 2 trees that finish off the building shows the creative use of LEGO® pieces. The plumeria tree is surrounded by a seating area that makes the Botanical Garden look so inviting and tranquil.  The plum blossom tree just adds that extra dash of colour to the pond.

The only thing I would change in the set is to swap the succulents/cacti and the bonsai tree. The succulents and cacti grow in a dry and hot environment and near the waterfall is not good placement, placing the bonsai tree next to the waterfall will give it a cool environment and protect it inside the building. 

I highly recommend this set; it is fun to build and will be a great addition to any LEGO® City. The set looks sophisticated and grown up.  This is a must have for all the LEGO® Friends lovers.