When it comes to cinema, it’s all about captivating viewers, and scenes wouldn’t be anywhere near as captivating as they are without props, costumes, and set pieces. It’s these iconic things that bring films to life, including the likes of the proton pack from Ghostbusters, the Batmobile from Batman, and the Iron Man suit from the Marvel Cinematic Universe. After all, these items have become symbols of the stories they inhabit, but such detailed memorabilia don’t come easily. Instead, it requires immense craftsmanship, time, and resources. Despite this, 3D printing microfluidics has made the process of designing and manufacturing these pieces so much easier. This is because the process paves the way for unmatched precision, creativity, and accessibility with ease.
The Revolution of 3D Printing in Filmmaking
3D printing is otherwise known as additive manufacturing, and it involves creating a physical object from a digital model by layering materials. These materials tend to be plastic, resin, or metal, and they’re layered until the object is fully formed. The filmmaking industry isn’t the only sector to benefit from 3D printing, but Hollywood is very fond of the technology when it comes to the creation of intricate props and costumes that would otherwise be extremely labor-intensive to make.
Perhaps the biggest advantage of 3D printing in filmmaking is how it can produce highly detailed replicas with incredible accuracy. With 3D printing, designers are able to craft digital models with intricate details, which the printers are then able to reproduce right down to the smallest texture or pattern. With such a high level of precision, it becomes so much easier to make futuristic or fantastical items that are crucial when it comes to visual storytelling.
Iconic Examples of 3D Printed Movie Memorabilia
Iron Man Suit – Marvel Cinematic Universe
Potentially, one of the most recognizable pieces of superhero gear in modern cinema is Tony Stark’s Iron Man suit. The suit is incredibly complex, with an intricate combination of engineering, design, and artistry. In fact, 3D printing played a vital role in bringing the suit to life on the big screen. For instance, the detailed armor pieces were made via 3D printing technology, which made the precise control over the fit and appearance of each segment possible. With this method, filmmakers were able to produce multiple versions of the suit for different scenes, ranging from battle-worn to sleek and shiny, all while maintaining consistent quality and detail.
Stormtrooper Helmets – Star Wars: The Force Awakens
You can’t talk about iconic movie props without referencing the Stormtrooper helmets in the Star Wars franchise. After all, they symbolize the might of the Galactic Empire. When it came to creating the props for Star Wars: The Force Awakens, a large number of helmets were required with exacting detail. As a result, 3D printing was ideal for producing uniform helmets with precise details and a perfect fit for every actor. Not only did this work to save time, but it also made sure that the helmets were authentic-looking and that they gave off the intimidating nature that was required.
Jurassic World Dinosaurs
In the Jurassic World movies, the dinosaurs need to be brought back to life, and this demands a combination of CGI and practical effects. With 3D printing, set designers were able to create detailed models of dinosaur bones, claws, and other body parts that actors were able to interact with on set. Without these 3D printed pieces, the realism that was achieved wouldn’t be possible, as they allowed the actors to interact with them in a tangible manner. What’s more, these models served as reference points for the digital artists who would later enhance the creatures by way of CGI.
