Reviewed by Alain King (SAFOLs Member, CapeLUG Member)
Introduction
I was glad when I saw that LEGO® Ideas submission of the buildable figure for Gizmo got through to the review phase and was excited when it was confirmed to become a product. I have a collection of the buildable figures and have fond memories of the film on which this character is based. When the opportunity presented itself, I picked up a copy of this 18+ set. It was only when I received the box that I realized this was a 2 in 1 build where you choose to build the model in a standing or seated pose.
Box and Contents
As is the norm now, the box contains 10 of the paper bags and the 220+ page instruction manual. With this being in the Ideas range, the manual starts a section about the designer and source material.
The Build Process
The build starts off with the same mechanism as the other Up-Scaled figures released recently like 40649 and 40819 that will allow for movement of the arms in a similar method to those found on minifigures. After completing the torso of the figure and adding the fur, the choice comes in where you need to decide if you are going for a standing figure or seated one. I chose the seated option and took some pictures of the spares given to allow for the alternative seated build. The process of building the torso, legs and arms will be done through the first six bags.
Bags 7-10 will build the face, and he does not start looking right until bag 9 is completed. Bag 10 adds the ears which are a very important aspect of the character as well as a pair of 3D glasses and a splash of water. Fans of the film will really appreciate the references of these.
Minifigures
This for me is the biggest disappointment of the set as a Mold for the minifigure exists and was released under the Dimensions theme is 2016 (Set number 71256) as seen in the image below. The inclusion of that figure would add greatly to the set.
Playability and Display Value
The play features are movable arms and a rotating head with adjustable ears, hands and fingers which give you nice options for how to display it which is what the set is for. The ability to choose standing or seated is a nice option but it would be better if you did not need to disassemble and reassemble the legs to do so.
Final Thoughts
The LEGO® Ideas Gremlins™: Gizmo set is a great rendition of a very memorable figure from a Film enjoyed by people who saw it after its release in 1984. As with many films and tv shows from this era, a large amount of the nostalgia around these is from our memories. I have not watched the film for a long time and am nervous to watch it again now as I am not sure how I will feel about it. With that in mind, I am very happy with this set and am glad to add it to my collection. ET will be added when that set comes through the same process. It would be a brilliant set if it included the minifigure.
Highlights:
· Enjoyable build
· Great use of parts and techniques to a represent the character
· Good colours and pose ability
Drawbacks:
· Rebuild of legs required to change the leg position
· No minifigure
Overall, this is a great addition to the buildable (Up-Scaled) figures released and I have included some photos with others buildable figures to give a sense of scale.
