Saved by the Bell 25th Anniversary - Bayside

If you grew up in 80's or 90's, chances are you followed the exploits of the gang at Bayside; Zack, Kelly, Screech, Lisa, Slater, and Jessie. You watched them go through high school, graduate, and go to college. You scratched your head when the school magically moved from Indiana to California. You learned about the dangers of caffeine pills, how to win a dance contest with sprained ankles, and Zack Morris 5-minute rule. Some of these have even  become embedded in our collective cultural knowledge. 

Therefore, what better way to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Saved by the Bell's start, then with a dedicated Lego set?

I have put together two sets, this one being hallway at Bayside High where many exciting and funny moments took place. I have tried to recapture as much detail as possible, and found making the lockers a challenge, but I am excited that there is locker of sorts that opens to place Screech in. The back wall hold a banner which would be printed with "Go Bayside", "Go Tigers", or something of the sort. 

I tried to be as cognizant as possible of both the house rules and what I know about existing Lego sets on the shelves. Of course, all the pieces come from available pieces and nothing new is needed save for outfit prints. Namely, I wanted to keep the price reasonable and accessible, $34.95 or less. The piece count is at 479 now, but once refined should be cut down, though how low I do not know at this point. Also, based on existing sets and prices, I chose to limit the set to 4 minifigures.

I had already placed Zack and Screech in the other set, so this around, my central duo is Slater and Jesse. Of course, Mr. Belding is essential in the halls of Bayside. Lastly, I included Kelly who was not in the other set. 

I'll be the first to admit that the minifigures need work. I was limited by Lego Digital Designer's options. Overall, the finished minifigures would have flesh tones. Slater would retain the tank top, although with a changing of the print. Kelly would also have a tank top with print. Mr. Belding's suit would be gray. Lastly, Jessie would have print on her shirt, and a peace sign would be printed on her protest sign.

So what is the appeal with this set? Well, as I mentioned before, Saved by the Bell is a cultural icon for people from their 20's-40's, and even younger generations who have been introduced to the show through re-runs. Also as I mentioned, it is 25th anniversary, so this would a neat little way to commemorate it.