Life dimension movie statues – Life-size movie statues set the stage for a charming journey into the world of cinematic artistry. From the meticulous crafting of historic figures to the awe-inspiring portrayal of legendary creatures, these colossal creations rework a movie’s narrative. Think about the sheer scale and impression of a life-sized character, seamlessly built-in into the very cloth of the story.
This exploration delves into the fascinating technique of bringing these statues to life, from preliminary design ideas to the ultimate, polished product. We’ll uncover the supplies used, the historic context, the inventive issues, and the profound affect these statues have on the general cinematic expertise.
Overview of Life-Measurement Movie Statues
Life-size movie statues are meticulously crafted representations of characters, usually from motion pictures, TV exhibits, or video video games. These aren’t simply props; they’re inventive interpretations, capturing the essence and typically the particular pose of a personality for show and appreciation. They’re an enchanting intersection of artistry, expertise, and storytelling.These statues are extra than simply static figures. They embody a personality’s persona, emotional state, and even the world they inhabit, permitting viewers to interact with the narrative in a novel and highly effective manner.
The artistry extends past the mere replication of bodily attributes; it delves into the emotional impression of the character.
Supplies Utilized in Creation
The creation of life-size movie statues includes a variety of supplies. From high-quality resin and fiberglass to intricate sculpting in bronze or different metals, every materials selection dictates the ultimate feel and look. The choice relies upon closely on the specified aesthetic, sturdiness, and finances constraints. For instance, resin is often used for its versatility and cost-effectiveness, whereas bronze gives a basic, weighty look.
Fiberglass gives a sturdy and moldable possibility for extra advanced designs. Every selection displays a trade-off between value, aesthetic, and the technical challenges of the undertaking.
Historic Context
The apply of making life-size statues for movie has developed considerably. Early examples usually relied on rudimentary strategies, whereas trendy manufacturing makes use of superior digital modeling and 3D printing. This evolution mirrors the broader improvement of movie expertise and artistry, reflecting the rising sophistication of the medium. The historic context shapes not solely the bodily look of the statues but additionally the best way they’re perceived and appreciated by audiences.
Comparability with Different Movie Props
Life-size movie statues differ considerably from different props utilized in filmmaking. Whereas props like weapons, costumes, and units present context and ambiance, life-size statues are designed to seize a particular character’s essence. They stand as particular person representations of a personality, capturing a particular second or emotion, and are often static, in contrast to different props which frequently serve a dynamic operate.
Their inventive and emotional weight elevates them past easy useful objects.
Classes of Life-Measurement Movie Statues
- Historic Figures: Portrayals of great historic figures, from kings and queens to revolutionary leaders, supply a glimpse into the previous. These statues usually embody historic occasions, capturing the essence of a bygone period.
- Fictional Characters: Life-size representations of iconic fictional characters, equivalent to superheroes or legendary creatures, permit followers to work together with their favourite characters in a tangible manner. These figures usually grow to be collector’s objects and function testaments to the enduring enchantment of those characters.
- Monsters and Creatures: Depictions of monsters, creatures, and different fantastical beings are important to many movies and video video games. They usually have a novel inventive type, emphasizing the creature’s terrifying or charming options.
Class | Examples | Key Traits |
---|---|---|
Historic Figures | Generals, royalty, historic figures from varied intervals | Correct illustration of historic apparel and options, usually capturing a particular second in time. |
Fictional Characters | Superheroes, villains, fantasy characters | Distinctive designs, usually highlighting particular powers or attributes. |
Monsters and Creatures | Dragons, legendary beasts, creatures of horror | Intricate design and horrifying or charming aesthetic. |
Manufacturing and Creation Processes: Life Measurement Movie Statues

Bringing a cinematic second to life in three dimensions is a meticulous course of, demanding precision and fervour. From preliminary idea to ultimate polish, every life-size movie statue is a testomony to artistry and dedication. The intricate steps concerned form the ultimate product, making certain a devoted illustration of the character or scene.The journey begins with a profound understanding of the supply materials.
This includes detailed analysis, meticulous statement, and a deep appreciation for the character’s essence. Cautious examine of reference supplies, together with movie stills, behind-the-scenes pictures, and even interviews with the solid and crew, helps in shaping a really genuine portrayal.
Designing the Statue
The preliminary design section is essential. It includes a complete conceptualization, outlining the pose, expressions, and particulars. 3D modeling software program performs an important function in visualizing the statue in its entirety, permitting for iterations and changes earlier than any bodily materials is used. Sketches, blueprints, and detailed 3D fashions are important for sustaining consistency and accuracy all through the complete course of.
Prototypes could also be created at a smaller scale to refine the design additional, resulting in a extra refined and polished ultimate product.
Sculpting and Molding Strategies
The choice of supplies for sculpting is a big consideration. Supplies like clay, wax, or a mix of each are often used, permitting for flexibility and element. Expert sculptors meticulously craft the shape, meticulously recreating the character’s anatomy and expressions. After sculpting, the piece is rigorously solid, making a mould. This mould is important for producing a number of copies of the statue.
The method sometimes includes a number of layers of molds, every progressively extra detailed, to make sure accuracy. These strategies, mixed with the fitting supplies, will decide the longevity and sturdiness of the ultimate product.
Making a Course of Chart
An in depth course of chart is indispensable for managing the complexity of statue creation. This chart acts as a roadmap, detailing each step from idea to completion. It ensures that each one needed duties are addressed in the fitting sequence, decreasing potential delays and errors. This chart may also assist in budgeting, scheduling, and useful resource allocation. Clear communication of the chart to the complete staff is paramount.
It should assure everyone seems to be on the identical web page and conscious of the timelines.
Significance of Accuracy and Element
Life-size movie statues require distinctive consideration to element. The smallest nuances in posture, facial expressions, and costume particulars are essential for capturing the character’s essence. The accuracy of the anatomical construction and the character’s particular traits is significant for a plausible illustration. Cautious consideration to those particulars ensures the statue resonates with the meant viewers and evokes the specified emotional response.
The statue ought to stand as a real testomony to the character’s persona.
Casting and Ending Levels
Casting is a essential stage, involving the switch of the sculpted type right into a sturdy materials like bronze, resin, or fiberglass. This course of usually includes a number of steps, from creating the mould to pouring the chosen materials. The ending touches, equivalent to making use of paint, patina, and different ornamental components, are utilized with care and precision. These steps decide the statue’s ultimate look and general high quality.
High quality management measures at every stage are important to make sure consistency and meet the specified requirements. The meticulous execution of those steps will produce a statue that captures the specified aesthetic and conveys the meant narrative.
Creative and Design Concerns

Bringing a cinematic character to life in a three-dimensional, life-size statue requires cautious consideration of inventive components. The method is akin to sculpting a story, the place each element contributes to the general impression. It is not nearly replicating a pose; it is about conveying the character’s essence and emotional depth.The design course of is not merely a technical train; it is a inventive dialogue between the sculptor, the movie’s creators, and the viewers’s creativeness.
The ensuing statue turns into a tangible illustration of the movie’s visible language, amplifying its impression and leaving a long-lasting impression.
Key Design Parts for Impactful Statues
A profitable life-size movie statue transcends mere replication; it embodies the spirit of the character. Key design components embody:
- Correct portrayal of bodily attributes: The statue should faithfully signify the character’s physique, capturing their distinctive options, together with expressions, posture, and physique language. This calls for meticulous consideration to element, making certain that the statue displays the character’s persona by their physicality.
- Emotional expression: The statue’s posture, facial options, and even the refined particulars of clothes and niknaks can convey the character’s emotional state. A statue portraying a hero in triumph will differ considerably from one depicting a villain in defeat.
- Contextual relevance: The design ought to think about the character’s function throughout the movie. The setting, their actions, and their interactions with different characters all affect the design, including layers of depth to the general narrative.
- Materials choice and end: The selection of supplies and their end profoundly impacts the statue’s aesthetic. The fabric should complement the character and improve the general visible expertise. The statue ought to replicate the time interval or aesthetic of the movie.
Capturing the Essence of the Character
The inventive course of extends past mere replication; it delves into understanding the character’s essence. A deep understanding of the character’s motivations, relationships, and inside conflicts is essential.
- Deciphering character traits: Sculptors must interpret the character’s traits and translate them into tangible types. A personality’s inside energy, vulnerability, or defiance needs to be discernible within the statue’s design.
- Reflecting character’s story: The statue ought to subtly narrate the character’s story, hinting at their previous, current, and potential future. This may be achieved by refined particulars equivalent to a worn weapon or a considerate expression.
The Position of Artists and Sculptors
Artists and sculptors are the architects of those cinematic embodiments. Their ability and creativity are paramount in bringing the imaginative and prescient to life.
- Conceptualization and design: The artist collaborates with the movie’s inventive staff to translate the character’s essence into a visible idea. This preliminary section units the stage for the complete course of.
- Technical execution: The sculptor brings the idea to life by meticulous craftsmanship. This includes understanding the fabric, its limitations, and the instruments required for exact execution.
- Collaboration and suggestions: Fixed communication and suggestions between the artist, sculptor, and movie staff are very important for attaining the specified end result.
Affect on Visible Aesthetic of the Movie
The statue’s design is intrinsically linked to the movie’s visible identification. It is not simply an remoted piece; it is an extension of the movie’s aesthetic, enriching its general visible expertise.
- Reinforcing visible themes: The statue’s design can reinforce the visible themes current within the movie, equivalent to grandeur, vulnerability, or heroism.
- Complementing visible language: The statue can complement the movie’s general visible language by echoing its coloration palettes, lighting schemes, or inventive type.
Examples of Profitable Designs
Profitable life-size movie statues usually obtain a strong synergy between inventive expression and narrative impression. Their impression extends past the instant viewing expertise, turning into a long-lasting image of the movie’s legacy.
Movie | Character | Impactful Design Parts |
---|---|---|
The Lord of the Rings | Aragorn | Majestic posture, reasonable element, heroic expression. |
Star Wars | Darth Vader | Highly effective presence, menacing posture, intimidating design. |
Avatar | Neytiri | Ethereal magnificence, intricate element, connection to nature. |
Functions and Makes use of in Movie
Life-size movie statues are extra than simply props; they’re highly effective storytelling instruments. They’ll rework a scene, evoke particular feelings, and even grow to be central characters within the narrative. Their presence can add a novel dimension to the visible language of a movie, usually serving as highly effective symbols or metaphors.These statues, meticulously crafted and designed, can serve a variety of capabilities in a movie, going past merely being ornamental objects.
They grow to be important components within the general visible and narrative expertise, contributing to the emotional resonance of the movie and enhancing the viewer’s engagement. They’re extra than simply static figures; they are often lively members within the unfolding story.
Completely different Makes use of in Movie
Life-size movie statues are employed in quite a lot of methods, every including a definite layer to the cinematic expertise. They can be utilized to create a way of grandeur, historic context, or perhaps a sense of foreboding. Their presence can immediately set up the setting, the period, or the temper of a scene.
- Setting the Scene: Statues can shortly set up a movie’s time interval, location, or social context. A life-size statue of a Roman basic, for example, immediately locations the viewer in historical Rome. This fast and highly effective visible communication is vital to immersing the viewers within the movie’s world.
- Symbolic Illustration: Statues can act as highly effective symbols, representing themes or concepts that is likely to be troublesome to convey by dialogue alone. A statue of a damaged warrior, for instance, can symbolize the lack of a hero or the decay of a civilization.
- Creating Environment: The mere presence of a statue can considerably have an effect on the temper and ambiance of a scene. A towering, imposing statue can create a way of dread or awe, whereas a fragile, ornate statue can evoke a way of class or nostalgia. The statue’s design and placement are key components in attaining the specified ambiance.
- Central Characters: In some circumstances, the statue itself generally is a vital character within the story. It may very well be a focus of battle, a logo of energy, or a catalyst for the plot’s improvement. Its function within the narrative is as vital as any actor’s.
- Dramatic Impact: Statues can add dramatic aptitude to scenes, serving as a visible centerpiece or a backdrop for motion. A statue positioned strategically in a battle scene can spotlight the size of the battle or the importance of the situation.
Impression on Storytelling
The impression of life-size statues on storytelling is substantial. Their presence provides one other dimension to the visible narrative, enriching the viewer’s understanding of the movie’s characters, themes, and world. They’ll contribute to the general emotional weight and impression of the story.
- Enhanced Visible Language: Statues usually are not merely objects; they’re a part of the movie’s visible language. Their presence enhances the storytelling by offering visible cues, symbolic that means, and emotional context.
- Emotional Resonance: Statues can evoke a variety of feelings in viewers. They’ll evoke awe, disappointment, or nostalgia, relying on their design and placement throughout the scene. This emotional impression straight influences the viewer’s connection to the story.
- Creating Which means: By strategically putting a statue inside a scene, filmmakers can create refined layers of that means that deepen the viewer’s understanding of the story. The statue acts as a visible metaphor, enriching the narrative and offering extra depth to the plot.
Examples in Movie
Quite a few movies have efficiently utilized life-size statues as integral parts of their narratives. These examples show the ability and flexibility of those props in enhancing storytelling.
- Movie A: A historic epic may use a colossal statue of a historic determine to ascertain the period and emphasize the determine’s significance within the story. The statue may very well be a focus of the movie’s battle.
- Movie B: A fantasy movie may use a towering statue of a legendary creature to represent the movie’s otherworldly setting and the creatures’ presence. The statue may very well be used to create a way of awe and thriller.
- Movie C: A thriller may use a life-size statue of a previous sufferer to create a way of foreboding and to focus on the recurring theme of vengeance within the movie. The statue may very well be positioned strategically so as to add to the movie’s ambiance of suspense.
Price and Upkeep
Bringing a beloved movie character to life as a life-size statue is a big endeavor, requiring cautious consideration of varied components. From preliminary idea to ultimate unveiling, the method calls for meticulous planning and a sensible finances. This part will delve into the associated fee drivers, upkeep wants, and long-term preservation methods for these magnificent creations.
Elements Influencing Statue Prices
The price of making a life-size movie statue is multifaceted, encompassing supplies, craftsmanship, specialised instruments, and the artist’s charges. A significant factor is the fabric choice, starting from bronze and resin to composites. Every materials has its personal worth level and related fabrication complexities. The intricacy of the design and the extent of element required additionally impression the general value.
Labor prices, together with sculptor’s time, assistants, and specialised technicians, contribute considerably to the ultimate price ticket.
Upkeep Necessities, Life dimension movie statues
Sustaining a life-size movie statue requires a devoted strategy, specializing in environmental management and common inspections. Defending the statue from environmental components, equivalent to excessive temperatures, moisture, and air pollution, is essential. Common cleansing, utilizing acceptable cleansing options, is important to stop harm from mud and dirt buildup. A complete upkeep plan ought to embody scheduled inspections for any indicators of injury or deterioration.
Addressing points proactively can stop bigger issues and dear repairs in the long term.
Lengthy-Time period Preservation Wants
The long-term preservation of life-size movie statues is paramount. Supplies choice, correct storage, and preventative measures are key points of long-term preservation. Utilizing supplies immune to weathering and degradation is important. Environmental controls, together with climate-controlled environments, are very important to stop harm from humidity, temperature fluctuations, and airborne pollution. A preservation plan ought to embody an in depth schedule for inspections and restorative therapies, as wanted.
Skilled conservationists are invaluable for long-term preservation methods.
Detailed Price Estimate for a Life-Measurement Statue Undertaking
An in depth value estimate for a life-size statue undertaking relies upon closely on a number of components. A undertaking that includes a posh design with intricate particulars, for example, will necessitate extra time and assets, leading to a better value. The complexity of the sculpting course of, together with the extent of element, additionally impacts the general value. The next desk gives a basic estimate, which may fluctuate extensively primarily based on the particular necessities of every undertaking.
Class | Estimated Price (USD) |
---|---|
Supplies (Bronze, Resin, Composites) | $20,000 – $100,000+ |
Artist’s Charges | $10,000 – $50,000+ |
Labor Prices (Sculpting, Ending, Meeting) | $5,000 – $30,000+ |
Gear & Instruments | $2,000 – $10,000 |
Transport & Set up | $1,000 – $5,000 |
Complete Estimated Undertaking Price | $40,000 – $200,000+ |
Comparability of Supplies for Life-Measurement Statues
Completely different supplies supply various levels of sturdiness, aesthetic enchantment, and value. The desk beneath gives a comparative overview of frequent supplies for life-size statue creation.
Materials | Sturdiness | Aesthetic Enchantment | Price (USD/kg) |
---|---|---|---|
Bronze | Excessive | Wealthy, Conventional | $10 – $20 |
Resin | Average | Versatile | $5 – $15 |
Composite Supplies | Variable | Versatile | $8 – $18 |
Historical past and Evolution of Life-Measurement Movie Statues

From easy clay fashions to intricate, digitally sculpted masterpieces, the journey of life-size movie statues displays the ever-evolving panorama of filmmaking and inventive expression. This evolution mirrors the broader technological developments which have formed our world, and the statues themselves grow to be tangible reminders of cinematic historical past.
Early Levels of Growth
The genesis of life-size movie statues might be traced again to the early days of cinema, the place rudimentary representations of characters have been crafted for promotional functions or to seize the essence of a selected scene. These early makes an attempt usually relied on available supplies and strategies, demonstrating the ingenuity and creativity of these concerned. The emphasis was on creating a visible illustration that may very well be used for publicity and to spark the general public’s creativeness.
Impression of Technological Developments
Technological developments have been instrumental in shaping the creation of life-size movie statues. The rise of 3D modeling software program and superior sculpting strategies have dramatically altered the design and manufacturing processes. These applied sciences permit for larger precision, element, and customization within the ultimate product, providing a extra reasonable illustration of the characters. Early makes an attempt might need used clay or plaster, however trendy strategies make the most of a mix of supplies and processes that permit for much larger constancy and element.
Comparability of Previous and Trendy Strategies
Traditionally, life-size movie statues have been usually crafted utilizing conventional sculpting strategies. These strategies, whereas time-consuming, supplied a novel inventive contact. Trendy strategies leverage digital instruments and computer-aided design (CAD) software program, which permits for speedy prototyping and complex element. This digital strategy, nevertheless, additionally comes with a degree of precision that was merely not doable previously. Whereas the inventive imaginative and prescient stays central, the instruments used have modified dramatically.
Evolution of Supplies and Strategies
Period | Supplies | Strategies |
---|---|---|
Early Twentieth Century | Clay, plaster, wooden | Hand sculpting, casting |
Mid-Twentieth Century | Resin, fiberglass | Molding, casting, hand-painting |
Late Twentieth Century | Resin, fiberglass, composite supplies | Laptop-aided design (CAD), 3D printing, digital sculpting |
twenty first Century | Superior composites, 3D-printed supplies, digital sculpting | Excessive-precision 3D printing, superior digital sculpting, reasonable pores and skin textures, superior ending strategies |
This desk highlights the development of supplies and strategies utilized in creating life-size movie statues. The evolution is obvious, transferring from conventional strategies to superior digital applied sciences, resulting in extra intricate and reasonable representations.
Key Milestones in Growth
The event of life-size movie statues has seen a number of key milestones. The introduction of 3D printing expertise, for example, revolutionized the manufacturing course of, permitting for quicker and extra exact creation of intricate particulars. The provision of superior composite supplies additionally opened new avenues for sculpting and ending. These developments have remodeled the sector, making it doable to supply extra advanced and lifelike representations.
Cultural and Societal Impression
Life-size movie statues, extra than simply spectacular shows, act as potent cultural mirrors. They replicate, and typically refract, the values and perceptions of their time. These monumental representations of fictional characters, meticulously crafted and sometimes displayed prominently, grow to be a part of the cultural dialog.These statues can subtly affect how society views the characters they painting, and, in flip, the movies from which they originate.
The best way these characters are introduced—their poses, expressions, and general aesthetic—can reinforce or problem current societal norms and beliefs. Take into account how the depiction of a superhero in a life-size statue can encourage viewers to embrace sure values or how a villain’s portrayal may spark essential reflection on advanced social points.
Representing Cultural Values
Life-size movie statues supply a tangible illustration of the values and themes embedded throughout the movies. They’ll showcase bravery, resilience, sacrifice, and even anti-heroism. The visible language of those statues communicates cultural messages, shaping the general public’s notion of the characters and the underlying narratives. The meticulous consideration to element within the statues’ design and craftsmanship amplifies the impression of those messages.
For instance, a statue of a personality overcoming adversity can evoke emotions of hope and dedication.
Influencing Societal Perceptions
These statues, by advantage of their dimension and presence, have a big impression on public notion. A statue of a historic determine, portrayed in a movie, can generate dialogue and debate about their function in historical past. Equally, a portrayal of a recent social subject in a statue can spark conversations about related social issues. The impression is amplified when the statues are positioned in outstanding areas, drawing consideration and provoking public discourse.
This will additionally affect public opinion on the movie itself, creating buzz and anticipation.
Evoking Emotion and Environment
The sheer scale and detailed craftsmanship of those statues are designed to evoke particular feelings. They’re crafted to recreate the ambiance and essence of the movie. This will create a way of immersion, permitting viewers to attach with the characters on a deeper degree. The rigorously chosen poses and expressions throughout the statues amplify these emotional responses.
For instance, a statue of a personality going through hazard can encourage emotions of concern or pleasure, relying on the context and the viewers’s interpretation. A personality’s triumphant pose can evoke emotions of pleasure and inspiration.
Potential Controversies
Life-size movie statues, although usually admired, will also be sources of controversy. Depictions of sure characters or themes might be considered as insensitive, offensive, and even politically incorrect. The interpretation of those statues can fluctuate considerably primarily based on cultural backgrounds and particular person views. This potential for controversy arises from the inherent subjectivity of artwork and the wide selection of opinions and interpretations which can be doable.
Examples embody statues which may be perceived as perpetuating stereotypes or selling sure ideologies.
Examples of Debatable Statues
A controversial statue of a historic determine from a movie may spark debate relating to the historic context and the statue’s message. The general public’s response usually depends upon particular person interpretations and views. A statue of a fictional character with ambiguous motives may generate debate concerning the nature of heroism or villainy, or the portrayal of advanced characters. These debates are vital as they foster essential pondering and encourage a deeper understanding of the characters, the movie, and the cultural panorama by which they exist.
Future Developments and Potentialities
The world of life-size movie statues is poised for thrilling evolution. Rising applied sciences and artistic visions are propelling the sector into uncharted territory, promising charming new experiences for audiences and contemporary challenges for creators. The long run will undoubtedly carry modern designs, surprising functions, and a heightened degree of immersion in cinematic worlds.
Predicting Future Developments
The way forward for life-size movie statues will possible contain a mix of technological developments and inventive expression. Count on elevated integration of digital applied sciences like augmented actuality (AR) and digital actuality (VR) to boost the customer expertise. Interactive components and dynamic shows may carry these iconic figures to life in additional participating methods. Additional, we are able to anticipate an growth within the sorts of movie franchises represented, reflecting a broader vary of cinematic tastes and widespread tradition.
Particular developments embody a larger concentrate on area of interest markets and smaller, impartial movie productions, that are more and more searching for methods to capitalize on the recognition of those spectacular shows.
Rising Applied sciences
A number of rising applied sciences are poised to revolutionize the creation and presentation of life-size movie statues. 3D printing, with its capacity to supply intricate particulars and customised designs, will possible grow to be much more essential. Superior supplies science will allow the creation of extra sturdy and visually interesting statues. The combination of AI and machine studying may optimize the design course of, permitting for the creation of extra genuine and impactful representations of characters.
These instruments will facilitate larger precision in capturing the nuances of the character’s type and expression, whereas additionally enhancing manufacturing effectivity.
Progressive Designs and Functions
Past conventional museum or gallery settings, future functions for life-size movie statues are wide-ranging. Think about interactive displays the place guests can work together with the statues by touchscreens or voice instructions, unveiling hidden tales or details concerning the character. The event of immersive environments, maybe incorporating holographic projections or dynamic lighting programs, will create really unforgettable experiences. For instance, theme parks and leisure venues will possible be key locations for these statues, creating memorable sights that attract vacationers.
Potential Future Challenges
Whereas the way forward for life-size movie statues is brilliant, a number of challenges stay. Sustaining the standard and authenticity of those large-scale creations will probably be important, significantly within the face of potential harm or put on. The price of manufacturing, whereas doubtlessly lowering with developments in expertise, may nonetheless be prohibitive for some initiatives. Addressing the moral implications of recreating iconic characters, particularly in relation to mental property rights, will even be a essential concern.
Potential Future Developments
- Integration of AR and VR applied sciences to create interactive experiences for guests.
- Growth of extra sturdy and cost-effective supplies for statue manufacturing.
- Enhanced use of 3D printing for intricate and detailed designs.
- Creation of dynamic lighting and projection programs to carry the statues to life.
- Growth of customized experiences by AI-powered interplay.
- Exploration of modern functions in theme parks and leisure venues.
- Addressing the moral implications of recreating iconic characters, together with mental property rights.