Abstract: The invention relates to reactive liquid crystal compounds of Formula (I), wherein P=polymerizable group, Sp=spacer, X and Z=linking group, n=1, m=0, or 1, A1 and A2=ring structure and R=unsubstituted or substituted alkyl group with the proviso that m=1 and/or R—P—Sp—X group. The composition comprising reactive liquid crystal compounds of formula (I), to linear or cross-linked (co) polymers obtainable by (co) polymerizing said reactive liquid crystals or compositions and to the use of said reactive liquid crystals or compositions for the preparation of linear or cross-linked polymers or polymer films for decorative pigments, cosmetics or security applications, active and passive optical elements, color filters, scattering displays, adhesives or synthetic resins with anisotropic mechanical properties.