Films may be considered as wide fibers, or as unique material geometry possessing two dimensional symmetry (X, YZ). Potentially different uniformity issues along the machine (long) and transverse directions of the film, characterization of Z-axis performanceespecially as films become thin and the characterization/identification of surface modification, introduce the need for careful samp領 strategies if the resulting thermal analysis data is to be reflective of either process history or end-use performance or both. Two dimensional imaging by a combination of techniquesi.e., DSCWAXSFTIRAFM exploit the convenience of the sample geometry, while aiding in the definition of structural complexity. Molecular spectroscopy techniques (DMA, TSC) provide a sensitive and instructive tool for examining novel surface or interface chemistry. Characterization under biorelevant conditions (37 ◦C, aqueous, standard saline, presence of adhesive and other proteins, presence of cells) is critical for the generation of meaningful data on films to be utilized biologically (cell culture, tissue engineering substrates, biochips). Of special interest are strategies for accelerated aging that allow prediction of biological or biorelevant performance.