Lego Monkie Kid Explained

Lego Monkie Kid
Subject:	Monkey King and Journey to the West
From:	May 2020
To:	Present
Sets:	47
Website:	https://www.lego.com/en-my/themes/monkie-kid

Lego Monkie Kid (and stylized as LEGO Monkie Kid 悟空小侠) is a Lego theme inspired by Monkey King and Journey to the West.^[1] It is licensed from The Lego Group.^{[2] [3]} The theme was first introduced in May 2020. The toy line is also accompanied by an animated television series that premiered in China on May 29, 2020, with the special Lego Monkie Kid: A Hero Is Born.

Overview

Lego Monkie Kid is inspired by Monkey King and Journey to the West, which focuses on Monkie Kid and his friends, battling against a variety of demons who are trying to take over Megapolis.^{[4] [5]}

Development

Lego Monkie Kid is The Lego Group's first product line based on Chinese culture. Although The Lego Group had previously released Lego Chinese New Year sets, it was the first time that the company had released an entire product line based on a Chinese theme. Following research in China, The Lego Group discovered that the classic Chinese story of the Monkey King and Journey to the West is widely known within Chinese culture. As a result, the story was chosen as the main inspiration for Lego Monkie Kid. Simon Lucas, senior creative director commented, "It feels like it was in the DNA of everybody there. So we thought it was a great starting point to tell a new story that's rooted in Chinese culture". The Lego theme was developed over the course of two years and interpreted the story in a different way to the original. Lucas explained, "The people we spoke to have grown up with these stories, and we wanted to find out what's important to them, and how to interpret that in a new way...So, being 100% accurate to the original was not necessary, really, because we were picking up the key ingredients". The product line does, however, include recognizable characters from Journey to the West.^[6]

The designers behind Lego Monkie Kid had revealed that researching Chinese stories and testing with children were important in the development of the brand new theme. Lego Senior Design Manager Dennis Fong explained, “We felt that we hit something really big when we had this concept of the Monkey King,” and continued, “Seeing all the energy from the kids, the parents, how they could instantly recognize it because we had a lot of key iconic elements in there. And, you know, we didn't need to tell a new story. We had the old story as a foundation for us to build upon."^{[7] [8]}

The initial concept for the theme originated in a rough sketch created by Ned Rogers in December 2021. The sketch depicted several construction sets are transformed into animated vehicles and which parts of the design remain. Featured the concept art are Monkie Kid's Cloud Jet, Pigsy's Food Truck and the Tuk Tuk from Iron Bull Tank. With Lego Monkie Kid theme from The Lego Group was developed as an animated television series, the images showcase how the early set designs were taken and turned into animated models on screens.^[9]

Launch

The Lego Monkie Kid theme was launched on 16 May 2020. As part of the marketing campaign, The Lego Group released the eight sets inspired by Monkey King and Journey to the West.^[10] Each set featured different giant mecha, buildings and vehicles. Minifigures including Monkie Kid, Mei, Monkey King, Mo the cat, Sandy, Mr. Tang and Pigsy were released as well.^{[11] [12]} The sets were designed primarily for children 6+.

Characters

Monkie Kids

• Monkie Kid ("MK" for short, 悟空小侠/齐小天, voiced by Jack DeSena^[13]):^{[14] [15] [16]} The main protagonist of the series. A young noodle delivery boy chosen by Monkey King as his new successor to battle against the forces of evil, he wields Monkey King's golden staff and given almost all of his powers.
• Mei (龙小娇, voiced by Stephanie Sheh^[17]):^[18] The descendant of the legendary White Horse Dragon and MK's best friend, she is gifted with a dragon aura and her family's jade dragon blade to fight against foes, she would later inherit Red Son's Samadhi Fire in season 3.
• Pigsy (朱大廚, voiced by Dave B. Mitchell^[19]):^[20] The stern owner and head chef of Pigsy's Noodles who acts as a fatherly figure to MK. His weapon of choice is a rake.
• Sandy (沙大力, voiced by Patrick Seitz^[21]):^[22] A river ogre who was formerly a rage-filled soldier, but became peaceful after going to therapy for his anger. When enraged, his eyes glow purple while his pearl necklace turns into orbs of fire. His weapon of choice is a crescent staff. He was also made into a minifigure since the Season 3 sets.
  • Mo (毛, voiced by Stephanie Sheh^[23]): Sandy's pet therapy cat who is seen along with him when going on missions. He is reduced into a kitten named "Baby Mo" in later sets to follow up with Sandy becoming a minifigure.
• Tang (唐師傅, voiced by David Chen^[24]): A regular customer at Pigsy's Noodles, often telling MK stories about Monkey King in exchange for free noodles (which angers Pigsy for being cheap), it is revealed in season 3 that he has the power of chi manipulation, his weapon of choice is a khakkhara. He is believed to be another reincarnation of the Golden Cicada (金蟬子), who previously became Tang Sanzang.
• Monkey King (also known as "Sun Wukong", 孫悟空, voiced by Sean Schemmel^[25]):^{[26] [27] [28] [29]} The legendary hero who famously went on the Journey to the West and battled various demons, he then decided to retire on Flower Fruit Mountain and train MK as his new successor to fight against evil demons while also helping the team on occasions.

Demons

• Demon Bull King ("DBK" for short, 牛魔王, voiced by Steve Blum^[30]):^[31] Princess Iron Fan's husband and Red Son's father, he is the leader of the Demon Bull Family and the main antagonist of season 1. Demon Bull King was defeated by Monkey King centuries ago and trapped inside a mountain for 500 years until he was freed by his family and plans to takeover Megapolis, his weapon is a battle axe, while also cannons and a flamethrower when transformed into a giant, he is made into a brick-built figure in "The Flaming Foundry" set.
• Princess Iron Fan (鐵扇公主, voiced by Gwendoline Yeo^[32]):^[33] Demon Bull King's celestial wife and Red Son's mother. She was once a member of the royal Celestial Court, but later defected after falling in love with Demon Bull King and giving birth to Red Son, thus forming the Demon Bull Family who want to conquer Megapolis, the Celestial Realm and then the world. She is portrayed as cold-hearted and cruel who would do anything to please her husband, but despite that is also shown to actually care about her family. She wields a giant magic fan that can summon whirlwinds while also the power of aerokinesis.
• Red Son (紅孩兒, voiced by Kyle McCarley^[34]):^[35] Demon Bull King and Princess Iron Fan's half-demon, half-celestial son. He is an egotistical mad scientist who builds diabolical weapons and has a literal hot temper when humiliated in front of his father, whom he seeks his affection. He would occasionally join MK's team briefly to help them stop much bigger threats. It turns out he is responsible for the creation of the three Samadhi Rings due to his power being unstable when he was born. He has Pyrokinesis to conjure fire and uses a gauntlet as a weapon for both combat and to wield Monkey King's staff.
  • Bull Clones (牛雜兵, all voiced by Steve Blum): An army of bull robots created by Red Son to serve the Demon Bull Family who are led by General Ironclad (牛將軍), there are also five Bull Clones that are named, Bob (鮑勃), Snort (打鼾), Grunt (咕嚕聲), Roar (怒吼) and Growl (咆哮) in the toy line.
• Gold and Silver Demons (金銀惡魔): Twin demon brothers Jin (金角大王, voiced by Sean Schemmel) and Yin (銀角大王, voiced by Dave B. Mitchell) are a duo of troublemakers who like to create mischief. One time MK got sucked inside an enchanted Calabash by the twins which they make him believe he has a perfect life, but their influence goes awry which made the hero escape.
  • The Demon Accountant (惡魔會計, voiced by Victoria Grace): A female demon who works for Jin and Yin as their accountant when they had owned Speedy Panda.
• Spider Queen (蜘蛛精, voiced by Kimberly Brooks): She is the leader of the Spider Demons and the main antagonist of season 2. She was once a powerful queen a long time ago but not before her empire was buried underground, she then rises to the surface with the help of Syntax and a little girl (possessed by Lady Bone Demon) to conquer Megapolis by spreading her venom to mind control every citizen. She is carried by a robotic spider that acts as her chariot which makes her appear to have spider legs and an abdomen. At the end of season 2, she is betrayed by Lady Bone Demon, revealing that she was the final ingredient to her plan, and is dragged into the Trigram Furnace, killing her. Her ghost is later used by the Bone Mech in season 3 against Pigsy, Sandy and Tang before it was eventually destroyed. She also appears in season 4 as one of the forms the Ink Demons take to taunt Monkey King of his past.
• Syntax (黯網, voiced by Sean Schemmel): A human scientist that was turned by the Spider Queen's venom to help her conquer Megapolis, he wears goggles and has retractable robotic spider legs on his back he uses for mobility. He is the first of the spider demons to be killed by the Mayor near the end of season 2, with his ghost being used by the Bone Mech in season 3 against Pigsy, Sandy and Tang before it was eventually destroyed.
  • Spider-Bots (蜘蛛機器人): Robots created by Syntax to aid in the Spider Queen's takeover of Megapolis by injecting civilians with her venom to mind control them.
• Huntsman (獵剎, voiced by Steve Blum): A skilled hunter who serves the Spider Queen that is ordered to track down MK and his team, he has mechanical legs that can transform from regular legs to spider limbs. He also ends up growing a fascination with Sandy, who he becomes obsessed with fighting. He and Strong Spider are killed by the Mayor near the end of season 2, with his ghost being used by the Bone Mech in season 3 against Pigsy, Sandy and Tang before it was eventually destroyed.
• Strong Spider (壮漢蛛, voiced by Patrick Seitz): A brute who acts as the brawns of the Spider Queen's army, he has a muscular build with robotic spider limbs for legs, he also doesn't appear in the toy line. He and Huntsman are killed by the Mayor near the end of season 2, with his ghost being used by the Bone Mech in season 3 against Pigsy, Sandy and Tang before it was eventually destroyed.
• Spindrax (姬影): A female biker who works for the Spider Queen, she doesn't appear in the series but was only released in the "Monkie Kid's Cloud Bike" set.
• Lady Bone Demon (白骨夫人, voiced by Victoria Grace): A ghostly spiritual demon that was sealed within a tomb by Monkey King and the main antagonist of season 3, she believes that the mortal realm has suffered far too long and that the only way to save itself is to reshape the realms in her image as a way to end all flaws. After being freed by the Demon Bull King she took over his body and tried to destroy MK, only for the hero to defeat her and free Demon Bull King of her possession, Unbeknownst to them she roams the city and possessed a little girl. She then helped the Spider Queen rule over Megapolis but only to betray the monarch by placing her and other 4 ingredients in the Trigram Furnace to create her Bone Mech, MK tried to defeat her again but every blow just made her stronger which drained him of his powers and claim Monkey King's staff.
  • Bone Spirits (白骨兵): Ghostly warriors who serve Lady Bone Demon, they don't appear in the series but were only released in "The Bone Demon" set.
• Macaque (also known as the "Six-Eared Macaque", 六耳獼猴, voiced by Billy Kametz in seasons 1–4 episode 2,^[36] Alejandro Saab onwards): Monkey King's doppelgänger who shares his powers and the secondary antagonist of season 3. He and Monkey King were once allies centuries ago, but as he grew more powerful, Macaque was left behind and grew jealous to his opposite which makes him desire to steal his staff, his power and his title. After being killed by his former friend during the Journey to the West, he was resurrected by Lady Bone Demon who offers him to join her cause to destroy Monkey King, however he eventually redeems himself and help MK to defeat her, thus becoming an ally to his team. He has a scarred blind eye on the right side of his face, which he hides with magic to appear normal. He can generate a staff similar to Monkey King's except it has mace spikes at the end of each tip. Unlike his rival he possesses dark magic such as power absorption, phase through terrain, teleporting through shadows, creating copies of himself called Shadow Monkeys (影猴, two which are named Savage (野蠻的) and Rumble (隆隆) in the toy line) and summon a gigantic smoke monster.
• The Mayor (市长, voiced by Steve Blum): The supposed "mayor" of Megapolis who turns out to be a former chief of war who assisted Lady Bone Demon in betraying and executing his emperor before her entrapment. It's implied that a lot of Lady Bone Demon's power has been channeled into him, possibly being the reason for his inhuman qualities such as his white eyes and his weird movements. He is betrayed and drained of his power by Lady Bone Demon and captured by a newly reformed Macaque in season 3, who forces him to tell the heroes about Lady Bone Demon's plan. He is presumably left in their custody. He appears via the Memory Scroll in season 4, showing a glimpse into Lady Bone Demon and his past serving under their emperor.
• Scorpion Queen (蠍子精, voiced by Michaela Dietz): A scorpion demoness that can cast illusions to appear like an attractive woman, she once kidnapped Tang in an attempt to have a friend, but later persuaded to form one with Tudi. Her true form is that of a woman with both scorpion claws, legs and a stinger for a tail.
• Goldfish Demon (金魚惡魔, voiced by Michael Sinterniklaas): A small fish demon whose only source of mobility is a glass bubble with two robotic arms, he challenges MK and his team to a game where he has to give them a new engine for the T.E.A., the team kept losing their valuable items with every loss but found out he's been cheating all along thanks to MK regaining his Golden Eyes of Truth, thus winning the game, regaining their belongings and won the new engine.
• Azure Lion (青獅, voiced by Christopher Sabat): A blue lion who is the leader of The Brotherhood and is the main antagonist of season 4. His goal is to free his brothers from the Scroll of Memory and rid the world of the supposed suffering from the Jade Emperor and replace him as the new ruler, however his rule almost severely damages the other realms due to his self-righteous views. He uses a bronze saber as a weapon.
  • Ink Demons (墨魔, voiced by Dave B. Mitchell, David Chen, Meli Grant, Johnny Yong Bosch and Billy Kametz in their shapeshifting forms): Demons made of ink who serve The Brotherhood created from the Scroll of Memory. They have the ability to shape-shift into the forms of others, which they use to take the form of those from Monkey King's troubled past in order to taunt him.
• Yellowtusk (黃牙象, voiced by Dave B. Mitchell): A large white elephant with yellow tusks who is a member of The Brotherhood that uses a mallet as a weapon. Being wiser than his brothers, he sees the error of the Brotherhood's ways and know that Azure Lion's goal was only for his selfish gain to the point where he helps MK's team and turn himself over to the Celestial Army. He is designed into a big-fig within the show but made into a minifigure in the toy line.
• Peng (also known as the "Golden-Winged Peng", 金翅大鵬鳥, voiced by Meli Grant): A bird with golden wings who is a member of The Brotherhood that uses a Ji spear as a weapon, they are shown to care about their brothers, but cares mostly about themselves and own safety. They and their brothers have the ability to create structures in any size and can materialize their wings for flight.
• Kui Mulang (also known as the "Yellow Robed Demon", 黃袍惡魔, voiced by Sean Schemmel): A celestial member of the 28 Mansions who fell in love with one of the Jade Maidens, however the Celestial Realm did not accept their love to which they sacrificed their immortality in hopes of being reincarnated, but in the process lost the love of his life. Because of this he turns into a demon and consumes the souls of anyone who enters his domain to prolong his mortality. He has the ability to transform into a monstrous giant wolf.
• The Nine-Headed Demon (九頭蟲, voiced by Matthew Mercer): A demon that shapeshifts into a flying nine-headed beast. He is the main antagonist in season 5. He is a secret villain who's main mission is to explore the chaos realm. Trapped in the mortal realm for eons, his long-term plan to get back in was to wake up MK and disguise as an Underworld King.
• The 100-Eyed Demon (百眼魔君, voiced by Fred Tatasciore): A centipede demon with multiple eyes who is a brief antagonist in season 5. His main power is manipulating the memories of others.

Allies and Celestial Beings

• Tang Sanzang (唐三藏, voiced by David Chen): The Buddhist monk and reincarnation of the Golden Cicada who completed the Journey to the West with the assistance of Monkey King and his other disciples.
• Zhu Bajie (豬八戒, voiced by Dave B. Mitchell): Pigsy's ancestor and one of the original Pilgrims of the Journey to the West, before joining with Tang Sanzang, he was once a demon that was much larger and obese, gathering humans as ingredients to his food and serve them to other demons to eat (including himself).
• Sha Wujing (沙悟淨, voiced by Patrick Seitz): Sandy's ancestor and one of the original Pilgrims of the Journey to the West, before joining with Tang Sanzang, he was once a rageful demon with a muscular build and has a necklace of skulls that orbit around his neck, challenging anyone who dare trespass the Flowing Sand River to see who is the strongest warrior.
• Ao Lie (also known as the "White Horse Dragon", 白龍馬, voiced by Michael Sinterniklaas): Mei's ancestor and one of the original Pilgrims of the Journey to the West, during a ritual of extracting the infant Red Son of the Samadhi Fire, a small fragment was transferred to him instead of one of the rings, resulting his descendant to inherit the unstable flames. He has the ability to change from his dragon, horse and human form.
• Ne Zha (哪吒, voiced by Johnny Yong Bosch): The young Third Lotus Prince and member of the Celestial Court who once fought off Monkey King, but now is an ally to his successor MK and his team. He wields a spear as a weapon and is carried by two flaming rings under his feet for mobility.
• Chang'e (嫦娥, voiced by Emi Lo): A celestial lunar deity who resides on the moon who enjoys livestreaming to her followers and does a cooking show that Pigsy loves to watch, she is assisted by Lunar Rabbit Robots (月兔機器人) to help her make mooncakes in her factory, she is also guarded by Bunny Mechs (兔子機甲) that protect the moon while she's away.
• Ao Guang (also known as the "Dragon of the East", 敖光, voiced by James Sie): The ruler of the Eastern Sea and great-uncle of Mei who was the original owner of the golden staff before Monkey King took it as a weapon.
  • The Attendant (服務員, voiced by Victoria Grace): The royal assistant and stylist to the Dragon of the East.
• Master Subodhi (須菩提, voiced by James Sie): Monkey King's former martial arts mentor who taught him to how to become immortal through Taoism and give him powers such as summoning a cloud to fly, replicating himself through his fur and shapeshifting into 72 forms of transformation. When MK and his friends got sucked inside the Scroll of Memory, he meets with a memory of the wise master, however he is revealed to be all knowing as he has limited knowledge of the present despite being just a memory.
  • The Acolyte (侍僧, voiced by Stephanie Sheh): A female disciple of Master Subodhi.
• Jade Emperor (玉皇大帝, voiced by Keone Young): The ruler of the Celestial Realm who has the power to control all the realms, he previously defeated Monkey King after he tried to takeover the Celestial Realm and forced him to become Tang Sanzang's disciple. He was later challenged by Azure Lion to which the immortal ruler was killed, making the lion the new emperor. It is revealed that the Jade Emperor was instructed by Nüwa to protect the yellow Color Stone, which caused the entire universe to crumble due to Azure Lion's actions.
• Erlang Shen (二郎神): A half-celestial with a mystical third eye often accompanied by his dog. He is also the Jade Emperor's nephew. In the TV show, he, Ne Zha, and Princess Iron Fan were sent to fight off the Brotherhood. He is in "The Heavenly Realms" set.
• Lao Tzu (太上老君): A celestial alchemist who was the original owner of the Trigram Furnace, which he used to contain Monkey King for causing a ruckus in the Celestial Realm. He appears in "The Heavenly Realms" set.
• Li Jing (李靖, voiced by Fred Tatasciore): The pagoda-bearing celestial and father of Ne Zha. He takes over the role of the Jade Emperor after Azure Lion failed at keeping his power.
• Nüwa (女媧, voiced by Monique Burias Shi): The celestial goddess of creation who is responsible for overlooking the Great Cycle and is responsible for the birth of MK. She appears in her goddess form in the "Celestial Pagoda" set, and in human form (named Lady Yu) in the "Megapolis City" set working at a jade shop.
• Tudi (土地公, voiced by Dave B. Mitchell): A small tutelary mountain deity who resides underground, a robot named "2D-GONG" appears in the "Megapolis City" set.
• Jade Maidens (玉女): Female servants who reside in the Celestial Realm to entertain the guests and garden the Peaches of Immortality.
• The Court of the Underworld (十代冥王, voiced by Patrick Seitz, Sean Schemmel, Stephanie Sheh, Johnny Yong Bosch and Alejandro Saab): The ten tribunal rulers of the Underworld and the creators of the Scroll of Memory to punish those who committed crimes. A secret enemy disguised as one of the kings went rogue and used the Scroll to free Azure Lion, causing the death of the Jade Emperor and almost destroying the universe.
• The Four Symbols (四個符號): Four animal beings of the Chinese constellations who are the guardians of the five Color Stones (one of which previously belonged to the Jade Emperor).
  • Black Tortoise (北方玄武, voiced by Barbara Rosenblat): A large black tortoise from the North who protects the blue Color Stone, she represents the element of water and the season of Winter.
  • Teal Dragon (東方青龍, voiced by Patrick Seitz): A green dragon from the East who protects the green Color Stone, he represents the element of nature and the season of Spring.
  • Vermillion Bird (南方朱雀, voiced by Stephanie Sheh): A red Phoenix-like bird from the South who protects the red Color Stone, she represents the element of fire and the season of Summer.
  • White Tiger (西方白虎, voiced by Fred Tatasciore): A armored white tiger from the West who protects the purple Color Stone, he represents the element of Earth and the season of Fall.

Others

• Mr. Dragon (龙先生, voiced by Steve Blum) and Mrs. Dragon (龙太太, voiced by Stephanie Sheh): Mei's wealthy parents who are the descendants of the Dragon of the West.
• Liu Boqin (劉伯欽, voiced by Christopher Sabat): A hunter who lives with his wife Jing (精, voiced by Stephanie Sheh) and guided Tang Sanzang to meet with his disciple Monkey King, he is also accompanied by his Ghost Grandpa (鬼爺爺, voiced by David Chen).
• The Store Owner (鞋店助理, voiced by Steve Blum in season 1,^[37] Jack DeSena in season 2, and Patrick Seitz in season 3): An employee of Megapolis' shoe store who first encounters Red Son and DBK who are searching for rare item's to absorb, one of which is the beelzebub shoes, he told the two to get back in line which made Demon Bull King take them by force and terrified the worker. He later appears again during the Spider Queen's takeover where he complains to Red Son (who was a cook at a food stand) about the food he made was too hot and burned his tastebuds, he demanded to see his manager who in turn was DBK and once again scares him off, he later stations himself in Lantern City.
• The Commentator (評論員, voiced by David Chen): A citizen of Megapolis who announces most of the cities competitions like the Great Wall Race and Food Wars.
• The Guardians of Knowledge (知識的守護者, voiced by Dave B. Mitchell and Kimberly Brooks): Two large red and blue guards who protect "The Cloud", a place where it connects the world of all its technology and knowledge.

This series also reference other characters from Journey to the West and the Investiture of the Gods such as the Buddha (如來佛), Guanyin (觀音), Ao Ji (敖吉), the Rhino King (犀牛王), the Four Heavenly Kings (四大天王), and Ao Bing (敖丙).

Toy line

Construction sets

According to BrickLink, The Lego Group has released 47 playsets and promotional packs based on the Lego Monkie Kid theme.^[38]

A Hero is Born sets

In 2020, eight sets were released on 16 May 2020 and were based on the TV special titled A Hero is Born. A total of eight sets including the Monkey King Warrior Mech, Demon Bull King and Monkie Kid's Team Secret HQ were released.^[39] Senior Design Director of Lego Simon Lucas discussed about the Demon Bull King set and explained, “The Demon Bull is such an iconic demon and kept coming up in our conversation. So we wanted to include him as the main demon in this season,” and continued, “Then we wanted to reinvent him in a brand new way, because LEGO is the perfect way to do that. So now we heard from the kids, ‘That's definitely the Bull Demon, but I’ve never seen him like that before.” ’ He's now half cyborg and half bull, and that's really cool.” In addition, two promotional polybags namely the Monkie Kid's Delivery Bike and Build Your Own Monkey King were released.^{[40] [41]} On December 31, 2021, A Hero is Born sets got retired in the Lego stores at the end of 2021^{[42] [43]}

Season 1 sets

In 2020, three sets were released on 1 August 2020 and were based on the first season. A total of three sets including the Monkie Kid's Cloud Roadster were released.^{[44] [45]} On December 31, 2021, the first season sets got retired in the Lego stores at the end of 2021.

Season 2 sets

In 2021, six sets were released on 1 March 2021 and were based on the second season. A total of six sets including the Monkie Kid's Team Dronecopter and The Legendary Flower Fruit Mountain were released.^{[46] [47] [48]} In addition, Monkie Kid's RC Race and Mini Monkey King Warrior Mech were released as an exclusive set and a promotional polybag respectively.^{[49] [50]} On December 31, 2021, the second season sets got retired in the Lego stores at the end of 2021.

Later, three sets were released on 1 July 2021. A total of three sets including The Bone Demon were released.^{[51] [52]} Senior Creative Director Simon Lucas revealed how the design team took cues from a video game to put together The Bone Demon set and explained, “Lego designer Justin Ramsden and I really tried to make the building journey part of the play,” and continued, “Like a video game, there's a battle at each level, and in the end you face the big boss.”^[53] In addition, a two key chains with a key chain attached to the minifigures of Monkie Kid and Red Son.^[54] On December 31, 2021, the second season sets got retired in the Lego stores at the end of 2021.

Season 3 sets

In 2022, seven sets were released on January 1, 2022 and were based on the third season. A total of seven sets including Monkie Kid's Staff Creations, Monkie Kid's Galactic Explorer and The City of Lanterns were released as well.^{[55] [56] [57] [58] [59] [60]} The Lego Group revealed at the China International Import Expo a brand new set titled the "Monkie Kid's Galactic Explorer" where MK and his team have built a rocket to launch into space, but Macaque's shadow clones try to stop them. The Minifigures are Monkie Kid, Mei, Mr. Tang, Sandy (minifig), a Mo space robot, and two of Macaque's shadow clones named Rumble and Savage.^[61] In addition, a promotional polybag set namely Monkie Kid's Underwater Journey was released as well.^[62] The Lego Group designer Justin Ramsden discussed about The City of Lanterns set and explained, "What's this extra part of track that's included at the back of the Lego model?! If you're lucky enough to get your hands on multiple copies of this set, then with a very small amount of rebuilding, you can actually combine them to make a much larger City!" and explained, "Finally… to some, this may be the luxurious Lotus Hotel however, don't be fooled! This is actually a candle to celebrate my seventh anniversary of working at The Lego Group. Cheers and hope you enjoy the set!"^[63]

Later, three sets were released on June 1, 2022. A total of three new sets named the Dragon of the East, Monkie Kid's Team Van and The Heavenly Realms were released.^{[64] [65] [66] [67] [68] [69] [70] [71]}

Season 4 sets

In November 2022, The Lego Group revealed at the China International Import Expo a brand new set titled the "Monkey King Ultra Mech", which was based on fourth season. The set was released on January 1, 2023.^[72] The set consists of 1705 pieces with 6 minifigures. The set included Lego minifigures of Monkey King, Monkie Kid, Mr Tang, Golden-Winged Eagle, Azure Lion and Yellow Tusk Elephant.^{[73] [74] [75]} In addition, four new sets including Monkie Kid's Combi Mech, Mei's Dragon Jet, Yellow Tusk Elephant and Monkie Kid's Team Hideout were revealed in December and were set to release on that date as well. A promotional polybag set titled Monkey King Marketplace was also released on that date.^{[76] [77]} Monkie Kid's Combi Mech and Mei's Dragon Jet can combine together,^{[78] [79]} and Monkie Kid's Team Hideout and The City of Lanterns can also combine into the largest set.^[80]

In May 2023, four additional sets were revealed and were released on 1 June 2023. The sets included are Monkie Kid's Cloud Airship, Mei's Guardian Dragon, The Mighty Azure Lion and Dragon of the East Palace.^{[81] [82] [83]}

Fifth anniversary sets

In November 2023, The Lego Group revealed a brand new LEGO set titled "Megapolis City", which is based on the city originating from the LEGO Monkie Kid cartoon series.^[84] Three more sets were revealed on December 1st 2023, and these were titled "Creative Vehicles", "Monkie Kid's Mini Mech", and "Mei's Dragon Mech". All four of these sets were made for the fifth anniversary of the LEGO theme and were released on January 1, 2024.

Season 5 sets

In May 2024, four sets accompanying the fifth season of the series were revealed. These sets are titled "Monkie Kid's Team Power Truck", "Nine-Headed Beast", "Nezha's Ring of Fire Mech", and "Celestial Pagoda". The sets will release worldwide on June 1, 2024, with the United States and Canada receiving them on August 1, 2024.^[85]

Lego BrickHeadz sets

A Monkey King set was released as part of Lego BrickHeadz theme on 1 August 2020. The set consists of 175 pieces and a baseplate. The set included a Golden Staff.^[86] On December 31, 2021, the set got retired in the Lego stores at the end of 2021.^[87]

Television series

Alt Name:	Monkie Kid
Creator:	Simon Lucas
Director:	Sarah Harper (2020–2022) Christian Barkel (2023) Eden Timm (2024–present) Ryan MacNeil (2024–present)
Num Seasons:	5
Num Episodes:	54 (+ 3 specials)
List Episodes:	Lego Monkie Kid#Episodes
Runtime:	11 minutes
Company:	Flying Bark Productions (seasons 1–4) WildBrain Studios (season 5–present)^[88] The Lego Group
Last Aired:	present
Network:	Tencent Video (China) Youku (China) iQIYI (China) 9Go! (Australia) Cartoon Network (Australia) Kabillion (U.S.) ^[89] HappyKids (U.S.)

Lego Monkie Kid is an animated television series series inspired by Monkey King and Journey to the West and produced by Flying Bark Productions from seasons 1–4 and WildBrain Studios from season 5^[88] to coincide with the release of the theme's Lego sets. The series premiered on TV3 in Malaysia on 13 September 2020, debuted on Channel 9 in Australia on 13 March 2021 and debuted on CITV on 9 May 2022 and Boomerang on 4 February 2023 in the United Kingdom^{[90] [91] [92] [93]}

Episodes

Series overview

Monkie Kid series overview

Season		Episodes		Original airdate	United States airdate
	Pilot				^[94]
	1	10
	Special
	2	10	5		^[95]
			5
	3	10
	Special	4
	4	10
	Special
	5	10

Season 1 (2020)

Monkie Kid: A Hero is Born (2020)

Monkie Kid: A Hero is Born is a 45-minute television special that premiered on RTM TV2 and TV3 in Malaysia on 13 June 2020,^[96] debuted on Mediacorp in Singapore on 27 June 2020,^{[97] [98] [99] [100]} premiered on 9Go! in Australia on 13 March 2021,^[101] and premiered internationally on Amazon Kids+ on September 9, 2021. It also debuted on CITV in the United Kingdom on 9 May 2022.

Episodes

Season 2 (2021)

Revenge of the Spider Queen (2021)

Revenge of the Spider Queen is a 43-minute television special that premiered on TV3 in Malaysia on 27 March 2021, premiered on 9Go! in Australia on 24 April 2021, and premiered internationally on Amazon Kids+ on October 1, 2021. It also debuted on CITV in the United Kingdom on 17 May 2022.

Episodes

Season 3 (2022)

Embrace Your Destiny (2022)

Embrace Your Destiny is a four-part television special/mini-series that premiered on CITV in the United Kingdom on 1 June 2022.

Season 4 (2023)

The Emperor's Wrath (2023)

The Emperor's Wrath is a 43-minute television special that premiered in China on 1 June 2023, and on the HappyKids app on 19 June 2023.

Season 5 (2024)

Theme park attractions

In November 2021, a Lego Monkie Kid themed land was announced for the upcoming launch of Legoland Shanghai Resort in 2024.^{[102] [103]}

Publications

A quarterly Lego Monkie Kid limited edition magazine published by CoroCoro was launched from 2021 to accompany the toy line only available in Japan.^[104]

Video game

Lego Brawls

See main article: Lego Brawls. A crossover fighting game named Lego Brawls was developed by RED Games. Lego Brawls was released exclusively for Apple Arcade on September 19, 2019, for iOS devices, and will be available for PC and Consoles in June 2022.^{[105] [106] [107] [108]} It includes Monkie Kid, Mei, Pigsy, Mr. Tang, Monkey King, Princess Iron Fan, Red Son, a Bull Clone, Gold and Silver Horn Demons, and the Spider Queen as playable characters.^{[109] [110]}

Other media

See main article: Lego Masters. Lego Masters China has started its first season of the regional show, with a trailer showcasing an upcoming episode based on Lego Monkie Kid.^[111]

Reception

Stephanie Morgan for Common Sense Media gave the series a three out of five star rating and commented, "This animated Lego series is fast-moving, suspenseful, and frenetic, all things that will draw young, hero-loving viewers to it. The Lego Monkie Kid episodes are short, usually around 10 minutes, but each manages a satisfying story arc and a few laughs. Unfortunately, some of those laughs come from mild violence, name-calling, or yelling. Underlying lessons are also delivered as mixed messages. For example, MK breaks something and says "part of being a hero is owning up to your mistakes," but later fails to admit what he's done. Overall, there's not a lot of bang for your parental buck here, but your child will likely be enthralled with the high-quality animation and likable cast of characters."^[112]

Awards and nominations

In October 2021, Lego Monkie Kid was nominated for "Animated Series Production of the Year" by the 20th Screen Producers Australia Awards.^{[113] [114]} It was also nominated for the Animation Ages 11–17 category in the 2022 Banff Rockie Awards.^[115]

In December 2022, Lego Monkie Kid Director Sarah Harper was awarded for "Best Direction in Animation" by the 2022 Australian Directors’ Guild Awards.^[116]

See also

• Lego Ninjago
• Lego Legends of Chima
• Lego Nexo Knights
• Lego Hidden Side
• Lego Dreamzzz

External links

• Official website
• Lego Monkie Kid at IMDb
• TV Tokyo website

Notes and References

1. Web site: LEGO Monkie Kid™ - a new hero is born, a new story is waiting to unfold . Lego Group . 15 May 2020 . Lego.com . Lego . 15 May 2020.
2. Web site: 2020-05-18. LEGO Monkie Kid "demonstrates our commitment to building a strong future in China," says LEGO. 2021-04-15. Mojo Nation. en-GB.
3. Web site: Behind The Brick: The LEGO Monkie Kid Creative Team . Brickfinder.net . 15 May 2020 . 15 May 2020.
4. Web site: LEGO Monkie Kid Officially Announced . thebrickfan.com . 15 May 2020 . 15 May 2020.
5. Web site: How Lego Turned the Monkey King into the Monkie Kid . . 22 June 2020 . 22 June 2020.
6. Web site: The story behind Lego's first ever theme based on Chinese culture . Michael . Cheang . May 21, 2020 . May 21, 2020 . The Star (Malaysia).
7. Web site: Journey With The Monkie Kid Alongside LEGO Designers Simon Lucas and Dennis Fong . Geekculture.co . 21 May 2020 . 21 May 2020.
8. Web site: Research and testing were key to developing LEGO Monkie Kid . Brick Fanatics . 21 May 2020.
9. Web site: Exploring how LEGO Monkie Kid adapts brick-built sets into animation . Brick Fanatics . 21 December 2021.
10. Web site: LEGO Monkie Kid: Behind-the-scenes image gallery . Brick Fanatics . 15 May 2020.
11. Web site: LEGO Monkie Kid Behind the Scenes Look . thebrickfan.com . 16 May 2020 . 16 May 2020.
12. Web site: Cheema . Sukhbir . LEGO releases its first ever Chinese inspired theme and it's based on the legend of the Monkey King . . February 18, 2021 . May 18, 2020.
13. Web site: MK. 2021-06-15. Behind The Voice Actors. en-US.
14. Web site: Who Wants LEGO Journey To The West Original Character Minifigures? . Brickfinder.net . 16 May 2020 . 16 May 2020.
15. Web site: LEGO Monkie Kid includes Classic Space reference . Brick Fanatics . 21 May 2020.
16. Web site: Monkie Kid - Our Main Hero - Characters Official LEGO Shop GB. 2022-09-20. www.lego.com. en.
17. Web site: MEI. 2021-06-15. Behind The Voice Actors. en-US.
18. Web site: Mei - Characters Official LEGO Shop GB. 2022-09-20. www.lego.com. en.
19. Web site: PIGSY. 2021-06-15. Behind The Voice Actors. en-US.
20. Web site: Monkie Kid - Characters Official LEGO Shop GB. 2022-09-20. www.lego.com. en.
21. Web site: SANDY. 2021-06-15. Behind The Voice Actors. en-US.
22. Web site: Sandy - Characters Official LEGO Shop GB. 2022-09-20. www.lego.com. en.
23. Web site: MO. 2021-06-15. Behind The Voice Actors. en-US.
24. Web site: MR. TANG. 2021-06-15. Behind The Voice Actors. en-US.
25. Web site: MONKEY KING. 2021-06-15. Behind The Voice Actors. en-US.
26. Web site: Monkey King - Characters Official LEGO Shop GB. 2022-09-20. www.lego.com. en.
27. Web site: Yen Yap . Mae . Legendary Monkey King actor Dicky Cheung returns to star in LEGO's 'Monkie Kid' . . February 18, 2021 . July 2, 2020.
28. Web site: Dickie Cheung talks about what LEGO Monkie Kid offers children . Brick Fanatics . 30 September 2020.
29. Web site: HK Superstar Dickie Cheung Reprises Iconic Sun WuKong Role in Lego Monkie Kid . . 30 September 2020 . 30 September 2020.
30. Web site: DEMON BULL KING. 2021-06-15. Behind The Voice Actors. en-US.
31. Web site: Demon Bull King - Characters Official LEGO Shop GB. 2022-09-20. www.lego.com. en.
32. Web site: PRINCESS IRON FAN. 2021-06-15. Behind The Voice Actors. en-US.
33. Web site: Princess Iron Fan - Characters Official LEGO Shop GB. 2022-09-20. www.lego.com. en.
34. Web site: RED SON. 2021-06-15. Behind The Voice Actors. en-US.
35. Web site: Red Son - Characters Official LEGO Shop GB. 2022-09-20. www.lego.com. en.
36. Web site: MACAQUE. 2021-06-15. Behind The Voice Actors. en-US.
37. Web site: SHOE STORE ASSISTANT. 2021-06-15. Behind The Voice Actors. en-US.
38. Web site: BrickLink Reference Catalog - Sets - Monkie Kid - Items Inventoried. 2021-04-14. www.bricklink.com.
39. Web site: LEGO Monkie Kid Sets Complete Official Reveal! . Brickfinder.net . 15 May 2020 . 15 May 2020.
40. Web site: LEGO Monkie Kid Monkie Kid's Delivery Bike (set number: 30341) Polybag Revealed. 24 May 2020. thebrickfan.com. 24 May 2020 .
41. Web site: LEGO Monkie Kid Build Your Own Monkey King (40474) Polybag Revealed. 4 July 2020. thebrickfan.com. 4 July 2020 .
42. Web site: 20 August 2021. Every LEGO Monkie Kid set retiring in 2021 and beyond – August update. Brick Fanatics.
43. Web site: 16 September 2021. One more LEGO Monkie Kid 2021 set is retiring this year. Brick Fanatics.
44. Web site: 8 July 2020. Second wave of LEGO Monkie Kid sets revealed. Brick Fanatics.
45. Web site: 1 August 2020. New LEGO Monkie Kid sets available now. Brick Fanatics.
46. Web site: LEGO Monkie Kid 2021 Sets Now Listed on LEGO Shop. 19 February 2021. thebrickfan.com. 19 February 2021 .
47. Web site: Lego Group. 6 November 2020. The LEGO Group Unveils New Sets Inspired by the Chinese Culture at the 3rd CIIE. 13 November 2020. Lego.com. Lego.
48. Web site: Unboxing & Building – LEGO 80024 Monkie Kid: The Legendary Flower Fruit Mountain Set. 1 April 2021. Geekculture.co. April 2021 .
49. Web site: 19 February 2021. A LEGO Monkie Kid accessory pack has been revealed. Brick Fanatics.
50. Web site: 1 March 2021. New LEGO Monkie Kid polybag revealed in March offer. Brick Fanatics.
51. Web site: LEGO Monkie Kid Summer 2021 Official Set Images. 2 June 2021. thebrickfan.com. 2 June 2021 .
52. Web site: 2 June 2021. A Monkie Kid set has set a new record for the LEGO Group. Brick Fanatics.
53. Web site: 14 June 2021. LEGO designer reveals secret behind new Monkie Kid set. Brick Fanatics.
54. Web site: 13 July 2021. New LEGO Monkie Kid Keyrings released. Brick Fanatics.
55. Web site: LEGO Monkie Kid 2022 Sets Revealed . thebrickfan.com . 26 November 2021.
56. Web site: The largest LEGO Monkie Kid 2022 set has a deep reference to brick history . Brick Fanatics . 28 November 2021 . 28 November 2021.
57. Web site: LEGO Monkie Kid 80036 The City of Lanterns features lots of vintage sets . Brick Fanatics . 28 November 2021 . 28 November 2021.
58. Web site: Five things we spotted in the LEGO Monkie Kid 2022 sets . Brick Fanatics . 28 November 2021 . 28 November 2021.
59. Web site: LEGO Monkie Kid 80036 The City of Lanterns reveals even more secrets . Brick Fanatics . 5 December 2021 . 5 December 2021.
60. Web site: LEGO designer reveals Galidor reference in 80030 Monkie Kid's Staff Creations . Brick Fanatics . 7 January 2022 . 7 January 2022.
61. Web site: The LEGO Group unveils new play experiences and partnerships at China International Import Expo . Lego Group . 8 November 2021 . Lego.com . Lego . 9 November 2021.
62. Web site: Five LEGO 2022 polybags revealed for Monkie Kid, Star Wars and more . Brick Fanatics . 4 December 2021 . 4 December 2021.
63. Web site: 80036 The City of Lanterns features personal touch from LEGO Monkie Kid designer . Brick Fanatics . 6 January 2022 . 6 January 2022.
64. Web site: LEGO Monkie Kid heads to heaven in summer 2022 . Brick Fanatics . 2 May 2022 . 2 May 2022.
65. Web site: Third LEGO Monkie Kid summer 2022 set revealed . Brick Fanatics . 3 May 2022 . 3 May 2022.
66. Web site: LEGO Monkie Kid Dragon of the East (80037) Official Images . thebrickfan.com . 5 May 2022.
67. Web site: LEGO Monkie Kid summer 2022 wave debuts online, confirming prices and release date . Brick Fanatics . 6 May 2022 . 6 May 2022.
68. Web site: Four new minifigures in the summer 2022 LEGO sets . Brick Fanatics . 12 May 2022 . 6 May 2022.
69. Web site: Every LEGO set launching on June 1, 2022 . Brick Fanatics . 27 May 2022.
70. Web site: LEGO Monkie Kid summer 2022 sets available to buy . Brick Fanatics . 1 June 2022.
71. Web site: 18 December 2022 . Six of the most underrated LEGO sets released in 2022 . Brick Fanatics.
72. Web site: The LEGO Group reveals its largest line-up of novelties inspired by Chinese culture at the CIIE . Lego Group . 5 November 2022 . Lego.com . Lego . 7 November 2022.
73. Web site: 80045 Monkey King Ultra Mech official images. 2022-11-07. Brickset.com. 7 November 2022 . en.
74. Web site: Comparing two generations of massive LEGO Monkie Kid mechs . Brick Fanatics . 7 November 2022.
75. Web site: Closer look at the new LEGO Monkie Kid 2023 minifigures . Brick Fanatics . 7 November 2022.
76. Web site: LEGO Monkie Kid 2023 sets fully revealed . Brick Fanatics . 2 December 2022 . 3 December 2022.
77. Web site: Six brand new LEGO sets to prioritise in January 2023 . Brick Fanatics . 23 December 2022 . 26 December 2022.
78. Web site: LEGO Monkie Kid's smallest 2023 sets combine, for better and for worse . Brick Fanatics . 14 December 2022 . 9 January 2023.
79. Web site: LEGO Monkie Kid Season 4 trailer officially revealed . Brick Fanatics . 12 March 2023 . 13 March 2023.
80. Web site: Two of LEGO Monkie Kid's biggest and newest sets combine . Brick Fanatics . 7 January 2023 . 9 January 2023.
81. Web site: LEGO Monkie Kid summer 2023 sets officially revealed . Brick Fanatics . 2 May 2023 . 2 May 2023.
82. Web site: LEGO Monkie Kid got bigger with new 2023 sets . Brick Fanatics . 12 May 2023 . 13 May 2023.
83. Web site: A brand-new wave of LEGO Monkie Kid sets has just launched . Brick Fanatics . 1 June 2023 . 13 May 2023.
84. Web site: LEGO Monkie Kid Megapolis City 5th Anniversary (80054) Revealed . Allen Tran . 5 November 2023 . TheBrickFan . Allen Tran . 12 May 2024.
85. Web site: LEGO Monkie Kid Summer 2024 Product Details . Allen Tran . 10 May 2024 . TheBrickFan . Allen Tran . 12 May 2024.
86. Web site: 16 July 2020. LEGO BrickHeadz Monkie Kid 40381 Monkey King revealed. LEGO.
87. Web site: 15 August 2021. LEGO Sets Reportedly Retiring at End of 2021. thebrickfan.com.
88. Web site: Breen . David . LEGO Monkie Kid Season 5 studio confirmation . 2024-05-11 . X . en.
89. Web site: FIND US . Kabillion . 12 January 2023.
90. Web site: The LEGO Monkie Kid TV show has hit Australian shores . Brick Fanatics . 21 March 2021.
91. Web site: 2022-05-05. Both Seasons Of LEGO Monkie Kid Hitting UK TV. Bricksfanz.com.
92. Web site: 2022-05-12. LEGO Monkie Kid Season 3 UK Air Date Details. Bricksfanz.com.
93. Web site: 2022-05-25. Monkie Kid Season 3 Begins UK TV Today. Bricksfanz.com.
94. Web site: LEGO Monkie Kid™ Arrives September 9 on Amazon Kids+ . Lego Group . 8 September 2021 . Lego.com . Lego . 9 September 2021.
95. Web site: 29 October 2021. LEGO Monkie Kid Season 2 now available on Amazon Kids+ in the US. Brick Fanatics.
96. Web site: 2020-06-14. LEGO Monkie Kid Animated Series Episode 1+2 Now Online!. 2021-04-21. Brickfinder. en.
97. Web site: LEGO Monkie Kid – Meet The Heroes . Brickfanz.com . 15 May 2020 . 15 May 2020.
98. Web site: The LEGO Monkie Kid: A Hero Is Born Animated Mini Movie Premieres 27 June . geekculture.co . 23 June 2020 . 23 June 2020.
99. Web site: LEGO Monkie Kid TV Special: "A Hero is Born" Part A. LEGO. 5 February 2021. YouTube.
100. Web site: LEGO Monkie Kid TV Special: "A Hero is Born" Part B. LEGO. 5 February 2021. YouTube.
101. Web site: Monkie Kid: A Hero Is Born - Australian TV Guide - 9Entertainment . Australian TV Guide - 9Entertainment . 17 April 2021.
102. Web site: 2021-11-17. CONSTRUCTION STARTS ON LEGOLAND® SHANGHAI RESORT AS GROUNDBREAKING CEREMONY TAKES PLACE. Merlin Entertainments.
103. Web site: 2021-11-17. Monkie Kid Set To Swing Into LEGOLAND Shanghai. Bricksfanz.com.
104. Web site: 2021-03-07. LEGO Monkie Kid to receive limited-edition magazine. Brick Fanatics.
105. Web site: LEGO Brawls. 2021-04-16. Metacritic. en.
106. Web site: LEGO Brawls Coming to Nintendo Switch . thebrickfan.com . 9 February 2022 . 10 February 2022.
107. Web site: LEGO Brawls brings the fight to more platforms later this year . Brick Fanatics . 11 February 2022.
108. Web site: The next season of LEGO Brawls is a free-for-all . Brick Fanz . 10 May 2022.
109. Web site: November 7, 2021. LEGO Monkie Kid continues the legend in LEGO Brawls. Brick Fanatics.
110. Web site: LEGO Brawls has everything from NINJAGO to Alien Conquest . Brick Fanatics . 15 June 2021.
111. Web site: December 10, 2021. LEGO MASTERS China kicks off first season with Monkie Kid episode. Brick Fanatics.
112. Web site: Morgan . Stephanie . Lego Monkie Kid TV Review Common Sense Media . 2022-10-06 . www.commonsensemedia.org . en.
113. Web site: FIRST FINALISTS ANNOUNCED FOR 20TH SCREEN PRODUCER AUSTRALIA AWARDS . Screen Producers Australia . 29 September 2021.
114. Web site: LEGO Monkie Kid has been nominated for an award . Brick Fanatics . 1 October 2021.
115. Web site: Rockie Awards ★ nominees ★ . Banff World Media Festival . 29 May 2022.
116. Web site: 2022 ADG Awards Winners Announced . . 10 December 2022.