It`s hard to believe four decades have passed since a certain modified DeLorean first hit 88 miles per hour, forever changing cinematic history and our collective perception of what a “flux capacitor” might actually do. Now, as Back to the Future celebrates its monumental 40th anniversary, LEGO is revving its engines, offering fans a unique opportunity to construct a piece of that iconic time-traveling legacy with brand-new DeLorean kits.
The Enduring Resonance of a Cinematic Classic
Released in a simpler time of hoverboards and self-lacing shoes (well, in the movies, anyway), Back to the Future quickly cemented itself as more than just a film; it became a cultural phenomenon. Its blend of sci-fi adventure, coming-of-age comedy, and surprisingly complex temporal paradoxes captured the imaginations of millions. Marty McFly and Doc Brown became household names, and their adventures across different eras, all facilitated by a rather improbable vehicle, continue to delight new generations. The film’s charm isn`t just in its fantastical premise, but in its exploration of destiny, choice, and the whimsical, often chaotic, nature of time itself.
The DeLorean: An Icon Beyond the Screen
Before it was a time machine, the DeLorean DMC-12 was a car with a story as intriguing as any movie plot. Known for its distinctive stainless-steel body and gull-wing doors, it was a marvel of futuristic design that sadly struggled to find commercial success in the real world. Yet, its cinematic transformation into the ultimate time-traveling device etched its unique silhouette into the annals of pop culture history. It’s a vehicle that symbolizes ingenuity, ambition, and perhaps a touch of madness—the perfect canvas for Doc Brown’s scientific endeavors.
LEGO`s Latest Homage: The Speed Champions DeLorean
For those looking to own a tangible piece of this enduring legacy without needing a spare 1.21 gigawatts, LEGO introduces its new DeLorean Time Machine set as part of the popular Speed Champions line. This 357-piece kit offers a delightful, accessible build experience that doesn`t demand an entire weekend, or indeed, a substantial loan. Priced at just $28 and releasing on January 1, 2026 (yes, you read that correctly, a time machine set releasing in the future!), it comes complete with minifigures of the dynamic duo, Marty McFly and Doc Brown. Builders will appreciate the meticulous detail, from the bricks mimicking the car’s signature stainless-steel finish to the diminutive yet distinct flux capacitor nestled in the rear. And for a truly authentic touch, it even includes the iconic lightning rod, ready for that fateful bolt of energy.
What sets this Speed Champions model apart is its playful versatility: easily reconfigure the wheels to depict the flying DeLorean from Back to the Future Part II. It`s a small detail, but one that speaks volumes about LEGO`s commitment to capturing the essence of the source material.
For the Dedicated Collector: The LEGO Icons DeLorean
For aficionados who prefer a more epic building quest, the previously released LEGO Icons DeLorean Time Machine remains the ultimate prize. This isn`t just a model; it`s a cinematic diorama waiting to happen. Weighing in at a formidable 1,872 pieces, this larger set offers an unparalleled level of detail and customization. Builders can choose to construct any of the three iconic versions of the time machine seen throughout the trilogy:
- Part I: Complete with the lightning rod and plutonium chamber.
- Part II: Featuring its flight mode configuration and the essential Mr. Fusion Home Energy Reactor.
- Part III: Transformed for the Wild West, boasting whitewall tires, an old-school circuit board, and interchangeable license plates.
Currently available at a discounted price of $170 (down from $200), the Icons set represents a significant investment of time and bricks, culminating in a stunning display piece that truly captures the evolution of cinema`s most famous time-traveling vehicle. It’s a testament to LEGO’s engineering prowess, allowing fans to dive deep into the film`s narrative details.
Beyond the Bricks: A 40th Anniversary Extravaganza
The LEGO sets are just one facet of a broader celebration marking four decades since the DeLorean first vanished into a trail of fire. Fans are also seeing the release of 40th Anniversary 4K Blu-ray collections of the films, complete with stunning visual and audio enhancements like Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and Dolby Atmos. These editions offer hours of bonus materials, behind-the-scenes insights, and commentary tracks, providing a comprehensive deep dive into the making of these timeless movies. From stunning new cover art inspired by the original Drew Struzan posters to the promise of revisiting every “Whoa!” in crisp 4K, it`s a fitting tribute to a saga that continues to warp our understanding of what`s possible.
Whether you`re a seasoned LEGO builder, a lifelong fan of Marty and Doc, or simply appreciate the blend of creative play and cinematic history, these new and existing DeLorean sets offer a fantastic way to honor Back to the Future`s remarkable 40-year journey. They remind us that some stories, and some vehicles, are simply timeless. And perhaps, just perhaps, building one of these kits might even give you a faint idea of what 1.21 gigawatts of pure, unadulterated fun feels like.
