Despite being unlicensed, the LEGO Group’s newly revealed Creator 3-in-1 set feels remarkably like the next LEGO Disney release.
Revealed on July 2, 31394 Red Panda is a 297-piece Creator 3-in-1 set that launches on August 1 for £24.99 / $29.99 / €29.99.
As its name suggests, the main build is a red panda, while the two alternate models are a clownfish and a ginger owl.
Creator 3-in-1 sets are often grouped around a shared habitat or theme. This trio, however, are united simply by how cute the animals are.
Or perhaps there's another connection: they could almost pass as an unofficial LEGO Disney set.
Each of the three animals has ties to Disney, although some are far more obvious than others.
The strongest connection is the red panda, the defining animal of Disney and Pixar's 2022 film Turning Red. The coming-of-age story follows teenager Mei Lee as she unexpectedly transforms into a giant red panda whenever her emotions get the better of her, making the set's main model an immediate reminder of the film.
The clownfish is another easy comparison. Disney and Pixar's Finding Nemo remains one of the studio's most recognisable films, with Marlin and Nemo becoming synonymous with clownfish themselves. Whether it's the bright orange colouring or simply the species, it's difficult not to make the connection.
The only slight snag is the owl. Disney has featured plenty of owls over the years, but none are quite as iconic as a red panda from Turning Red or a clownfish from Finding Nemo. There are still notable examples, though, including Friend Owl from 1942's Bambi and Archimedes from 1963's The Sword in the Stone.
Admittedly, that last connection is a little more of a stretch. Unless Disney's next animated hit happens to star a ginger owl, the trio won't quite complete the set.
Still, it's a fun coincidence. Whether by chance or not, 31394 Red Panda brings together three animals that instantly evoke some of Disney's best-known animated films, despite carrying no Disney licence whatsoever.
If you're looking for a dose of LEGO Disney charm without spending £319.99 / $399.99 / €349.99 on 43302 Main Street, U.S.A., this Creator 3-in-1 set could be a surprisingly fitting alternative.
31394 Red Panda launches on August 1 in LEGO Stores and on LEGO.com for £24.99 / $29.99 / €29.99.
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