The Neglected Gem
Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones, released in 2002, may not have garnered the same level of adoration as some of its counterparts in the saga, but it undeniably holds a special place in the hearts of many fans. From the thrilling action sequences to the introduction of iconic characters, the movie's impact is undeniable. This begs the question: why has LEGO not fully embraced the potential of this cinematic gem in its lineup of sets?
Hayden Christensen as Anakin Skywalker and Ewan McGregor as Obi-Wan Kenobi in Star Wars Attack of the Clones.
For over two decades, Star Wars enthusiasts have awaited the release of LEGO sets that capture the essence of Attack of the Clones. Despite the initial sets released in conjunction with the movie's debut, the subsequent years have seen a noticeable dearth of new models and sets inspired by this cinematic masterpiece. The absence of LEGO's representation of pivotal moments and characters from the movie is a missed opportunity that fans have long lamented.
75333 LEGO Obi-Wan Jedi Starfighter
A History of Limited Representation
The scarcity of Episode II LEGO sets is evident in the numbers, with only 21 sets released in the span of 22 years. The initial wave of sets, introduced between 2002-2003, offered fans a glimpse of the possibilities with models like Obi-Wan Kenobi's Jedi Starfighter, Jedi Duel, and Jango Fett's Slave 1. However, the subsequent decade saw a significant gap before the release of additional sets in 2013. Even then, the offerings were primarily updated models of existing sets, with sporadic releases in the years that followed.
75016 LEGO Homing Spider Droid
In comparison to other installments in the franchise, Attack of the Clones pales in comparison, with only 21 sets to its name. The disparity is especially evident when juxtaposed with the 43 models from The Phantom Menace and 52 from Revenge of the Sith. The limited representation of Attack of the Clones in the LEGO universe is a missed opportunity to capture the essence of the film through meticulously crafted sets and models.
LEGO Star Wars 2024 AAT Polybag
An Anniversary Celebration
As the 25th anniversary of The Phantom Menace approaches, LEGO has already begun commemorating the milestone with special sets, igniting anticipation among fans. The buzz surrounding potential releases, including models of the Destroyer Droid and Anakin Skywalker's Boonta Eve Podrace, has further fueled the excitement for what lies ahead. With LEGO's simultaneous celebration of the 25th anniversary of The Phantom Menace and LEGO Star Wars, the focus on Attack of the Clones may understandably take a back seat in the immediate future. However, this celebration serves as a promising indicator of LEGO's commitment to the Star Wars universe as a whole.
While the attention may be diverted to other installments in the saga, the looming 25th anniversary of Attack of the Clones presents an opportune moment for LEGO to rectify the underrepresentation of the movie in its lineup. The potential for new and innovative models based on pivotal locations and scenes from the film, such as the Jedi Temple, Galactic Senate, and the Geonosis Arena, holds promise for fans eagerly awaiting a more comprehensive LEGO tribute to the movie.
A Hope for the Future
As LEGO continues to expand its Star Wars portfolio, the anticipation for a renewed focus on Attack of the Clones grows. The movie's 25th anniversary is a prime opportunity for LEGO to delve into uncharted territory and bring to life the iconic moments that have long been overlooked. With the potential to create sets that capture the essence of the film and its pivotal moments, LEGO has the chance to not only pay homage to the legacy of Attack of the Clones but also reignite the passion of fans who have eagerly awaited a more robust representation of the movie in the form of meticulously crafted LEGO sets.
As fans eagerly await the forthcoming years, the hope remains that LEGO will rise to the occasion and grant Attack of the Clones the attention it rightfully deserves. With the potential for new and captivating sets, the future holds the promise of a more comprehensive and immersive LEGO tribute to a movie that has left an indelible mark on the Star Wars saga.
