LEGO fan designer gets a minifigure nod in LEGO Ideas Orient Express

It’s common for LEGO Ideas fan designers to make appearances in their sets, either through images or easter eggs – and the same is true for 21344 The Orient Express Train.

In the new LEGO designer video for LEGO Ideas 21344 The Orient Express Train, both the fan and LEGO Group designers appear to outline some of their favourite parts of the set, divulge behind-the-scenes information about how it was made, and offer insight into the minute details of the impressively authentic set. One tidbit shared in the video includes a nod towards the original designer, Thomas Lajon, in true LEGO Ideas style

“What’s cool about [the director] is that it’s loosely based on Thomas,” explained LEGO Designer Ollie Gregory while running through the various characters depicted in 21344 The Orient Express Train’s eight minifigures.

Indeed, the similarities between the two are clear, with both sporting a fashionable moustache with curled-up ends. The minifigure’s role as a director in the set also mirrors Thomas’ own real-life job, working as a film-maker. If we’re going to get meta about it, it also reflects his role in the set, having provided not just the original idea for the set but also staying involved throughout its design period and signing off on any changes to his original design.

“We (he and the LEGO Ideas team) had an open dialogue,” said Thomas in the designer video. “I could always ask for updates, either via email or video call to see the model, so that was really great.”

Hear more from both Ollie and Thomas in the full designer video embedded below, as well as insights from Arthur Mettetal, Heritage and Culture Director at Orient Express. LEGO Ideas 21344 The Orient Express Train launches December 1 for £259.99 / $299.99 / €299.99.

Support the work that Brick Fanatics does by purchasing your LEGO sets using our affiliate links, and stay across all the best LEGO deals with our dedicated page throughout Black Friday. Thanks!