For a while now, the LEGO Ideas sets have been a way for fans to bring their favorite moments from pop culture to life in LEGO form, and quite a few of them have been hard to resist. The new LEGO Jaws set, comprising 1497 bricks, is no exception. This set takes on the daunting task of capturing the tension and thrill of one of the most iconic scenes in movie history – doing more than just providing a shark model in order to create that Jaws feeling. For fans of the 1975 classic, this is a must-have, but it’s not without its challenges.
Right out of the box, the attention to detail is impressive. The set includes three mini-figures: Chief Martin Brody, Sam Quint, and the nerdy yet brave Matt Hooper. Each mini-figure is well designed and recognizable, capturing the essence of the characters without overcomplicating their designs. However, one can’t help but notice that these mini-figures, while charming, don’t quite capture the intensity of their on-screen counterparts – though part of that has to do with how you want to set up your scene (more on that later). Perhaps a few unique accessories or different options for facial expressions could have made them stand out even more, though for most this will be a non-issue.
The centerpiece of the set is not the shark itself, but the Orca, the fishing boat that serves as the battleground for the climactic showdown in the film. The build process for the Orca is satisfying, though it does come with its fair share of intricacies. There are moments where the instructions could have been clearer, especially during the assembly of the hull and deck, which might frustrate less experienced builders. Yet, once completed, the Orca looks great. It’s a sturdy and detailed build, but also manages to evoke the ramshackle charm of its cinematic counterpart. The worn look of the boat is cleverly achieved through a mix of brick colors and textures as well.
And of course there’s the shark as well, nicknamed “Bruce” in a nod to the film’s production. The shark is another highlight, both in design and in how it integrates and combines with the Orca. It’s imposing, with a menacing maw and articulated fins that allow for some dynamic posing. However, assembling Bruce can be a bit finicky, and getting the pieces to align perfectly might require some patience. Still, once complete, it’s hard not to appreciate the craftsmanship and versatility – as you can use the shark in a standalone form and as part of a diorama.
What truly sets this LEGO Ideas set apart is its thematic appeal. It’s not just a model; it’s a tribute to an iconic film. The inclusion of a printed tile featuring Brody’s line, “You’re gonna need a bigger boat,” adds to the display value when you use it in diorama form, and for fans of Jaws this set encapsulates the thrill and suspense of the film, making it a joy to display on any shelf as something that’s instantly recognizable.
However, the price point can feel a little steep when you look at the relatively small size of the build, though the set features plenty of pieces and is of course a licensed set. It’s also a slightly more challenging set than we expected because of its size, but luckily the end result is a visual delight and this one’s aimed at adult LEGO fans for a reason.
In conclusion, the LEGO Jaws set is a nostalgic and visually appealing addition to the LEGO Ideas lineup. It excels in capturing the essence of the film and offers a challenging yet rewarding build. It’s a set that will undoubtedly thrill fans of the film and LEGO enthusiasts alike. This one looks great next to our Indiana Jones and Jurassic Park dioramas, and we can’t wait to see what LEGO has in store next.
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