P2. Character Design

Character design is the combination of physical traits and narrative - narrative/storyline defines personality, gives context (genre, location, setting) therefore has to feed into look and design of the character. The face is the primary channel to express emotion (a reason for the many large headed characters). A lot can be said with posture and body language - this allows for personality traits to be identifiable in silhouette.

Solarski - states that how a character carries their physical weight can tell us about their personality - which body part they lead with is important.

Hero leads with their chest. If they lead with their pelvis is represents being laid back/lazy. Leading with head often show intelligence and knees tend to represent being a coward.

Cuddy - Power and dominance revolves around expanding power

Expand - take up space

Weakness: cover up, make yourself small.


Leading with chest:

Superman - leads with his chest - strong, powerful, hero, muscular













Leading with pelvis:

Goofy - laid back - slouchy - lazy - slumped













Leading with head:

Gru - villian - intelligent - suspicious