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From the moment he first roared onto the screen in A New Hope, Chewbacca has been the galaxy’s most beloved co-pilot. He’s Han Solo’s conscience, the Millennium Falcon‘s chief (and often exasperated) mechanic, and a “walking carpet” with more heart and loyalty than any other character in cinema.
But let’s be honest: how do you build fur out of hard, plastic bricks?
It’s a challenge that LEGO has finally met head-on with the massive LEGO® Star Wars™ Chewbacca™ (75371). This isn’t just a model; it’s a technical marvel of sculptural art. I couldn’t wait to tear into this box and see if LEGO could truly “let the Wookiee win.”
The Build: “Laugh It Up, Fuzzball!”
Let’s get one thing straight: you are not just building a LEGO set here. You are sculpting a Wookiee. The technical brilliance of this build is all in the “fur.”
The entire process is a fascinating marathon of layering hundreds and hundreds of plates, tiles, and sloped bricks in various shades of brown. You start with a sturdy Technic-based core (which is essential to support the final, very heavy model) and then begin meticulously building Chewie’s shaggy coat outwards.
This “brick-built fur” technique is unlike anything I’ve ever built before. At times, it’s a complex puzzle of interlocking pieces that seem random but come together to create a stunningly organic and flowing texture. It’s a testament to the designers that at no point does it feel repetitive. You’re too busy watching in awe as this iconic character literally takes shape in your hands.
A Wookiee for the Ages
What makes this set so special is how it captures Chewie’s entire saga. He’s not just the sidekick from the Original Trilogy. This is the noble warrior who fought in the Clone Wars, famously giving Master Yoda a ride on his back to escape Kashyyyk in Revenge of the Sith.
The finished model has an incredible presence. He stands very tall at over 46 cm (18 in.) and has a real weight to him. You can pose him in his classic stance, holding his trusty brick-built bowcaster, ready to take on the Empire.
But it’s the personality that shines through. You can see the loyal friend who would (reluctantly) let you win at Dejarik, the brave co-pilot who would punch it into hyperspace, and the heartbroken warrior who let out that devastating roar in The Force Awakens. It’s all there.
The set also includes a fantastic information plaque and a dedicated stand for the exclusive Chewbacca minifigure, making it a perfect, complete collector’s piece.
The Verdict
This is, without a doubt, a must-have for any Star Wars fan. The build is technically brilliant, the final model is a substantial and impressive display piece, and it captures the very soul of one of cinema’s greatest characters.
It’s an absolute showstopper that will be the centrepiece of any collection. Chewie is finally home.
The Blockbuster Builder Review Score
LEGO® Star Wars™ Chewbacca™ (75371)
- Set: LEGO® Star Wars™ Chewbacca™ (75371)
- Piece Count: 2,319
- Price: £199.99
- Our Rating: 10/10