This strange model is based on the Jeep used by Professor Calculus to drive Tintin and Captain Haddock to see the new moon rocket at it's launch site in the Tintin adventure, "Destination Moon". The story follows the threesome, along with others, as they prepare for their journey to the moon, (which is chronicled in the sequel, "Explorers on the Moon"). The scene in which the Jeep is seen follows an explosion of temper by the Professor, whom is outraged by Captain Haddock's suggestion that he is just an old "goat", and that he must be crazy to think that he could really get to the moon.
The Professor then proceeds to drag the Captain and Tintin (together with Snowy!) to a parked blue Jeep, and then to drive recklessly to the launching site, all the while saying to himself that he "must learn to drive someday". On arrival, he screeches to a halt and proclaims while stretching his arm out towards the rocket: "Look what the goat has done!". This is the pose captured by the model, as Tintin and the Captain stare in amazement towards the huge moon rocket.
UT make this model, and it is based upon their WW2 Willys Jeep, with a few detail changes. The small red numberplates along with the side (instead of rear) mounted spare wheel accurately depict the Jeep from the book. The figures are well made and again accurately replicate those from the Tintin adventure. The Jeep itself is pretty basic and lacks even rudimentary engine detail.
It is an unusual model, of an unusual subject, but well executed by UT. Hence it gets 6/10 marks. Not to everybody's taste, but I like it!
