On paper, Disney’s 42nd animated feature film shouldn’t have worked. It was released after the golden era of films such as The Little Mermaid, Aladdin and The Lion King. It was based on an original idea and not a well-known story and it didn’t feature a single original song. Yet over 20 years after Lilo & Stitch was released in cinemas, the love for the film and in particular, Stitch shows no signs of slowing. In fact, Stitch features on almost as much Disney merchandise as Mickey Mouse. Later this week, Experiment 626 will become the latest addition to the much-loved LEGO Disney range and here’s a brief look at the new set.
Product Details
Set Name: Stitch | Set Number: 43249 | Pieces: 730 | Theme: Disney
RRP: £59.99/$64.99/64.99€ | Number of Bags: Bags x 9 | Instructions: Paper booklet + Builder App | Stickers: Sheet x 1 | Accessories: Ice Cream & Flower Bow | Insiders QR: Yes
Availability: LEGO Stores, LEGO Online & General Retail from March 1st
If you are unaware of Stitch, he’s a supposedly danger alien creation, who escapes capture and crash lands in Hawaii. He soon gets mistaken for a dog and is then adopted by Lilo. Despite being an indestructible alien superweapon, hellbent on destruction, Stitch soon discovers he longs for a family as well as a love for Elvis’ music. I rewatched the film as I built this set and it’s still as delightful as when I first watched it.
This isn’t the first time a much-loved character has become a LEGO set, but it’s safe to say previous brick-built characters have split the opinion of LEGO fans. However, the use of newer elements and build techniques has allowed LEGO designers to better replicate various shapes. Stitch is a unique-looking character but this set has done an impressive job of recreating him. The build experience is great, although not overly complex build compared to some other sets, it does offer something a little different to other sets. As you build you’ll notice some odd placement of elements, only to find they are perfectly positioned to accommodate other parts of Stitch.
Stitch has been built in a seated position, with one arm extended to hold an ice cream. There’s also an additional flower, which can be added to Stitch’s head. Personally, the set didn’t need these additional pieces, especially as they are really associated with the character. But saying that, when Sticth isn’t holding the ice cream, his pose looks extremely odd. He’s also been given a flowery Hawaiian shirt. I guess this brings a little colour to the set, but again, I don’t think he needed it. Although the limbs and head are added to the body, the only movement the set has is the ability to turn the head and move the ears. But combined with Stitch’s perfectly built head, its still surprisingly expressive. Regardless, it’s still a great little set. The build techniques have really managed to capture the character’s appearance, even if the additional bits weren’t really needed.
The LEGO Disney Stitch will be available from March 1st from LEGO stores, online and from all good LEGO retailers. It’s also available now from The Minifigure Store.
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