WDI holds more than 100 patents in cutting-edge entertainment effects. The latest breakthrough was in the area of fireworks launch technology, where Imagineers developed an air launch system to improve display quality while enhancing safety and reducing ground-level noise and smoke.

Imagineers also continue to push the innovation envelope, creating special effects and illusions that bring Disney magic to new and unexpected places. At Hong Kong Disneyland, Guests who visit The Crystal Lotus restaurant will be wowed by an interactive digital koi pond, where strikingly realistic fish react to Guests as they walk on virtual water.

Turtle Talk with Crush opened in 2004 at Epcot at Walt Disney World Resort, featuring Imagineering's most magical foray yet into the realm of "living characters." Guests can hold conversations with the computer-animated character of Crush, the sea turtle from the Disney/Pixar film Finding Nemo.

Imagineers continue to dream up new forms of storytelling through architecture and design. The planned Hollywood Hotel at Hong Kong Disneyland is the latest example of how Imagineers immerse Guests in new worlds. The 1930s Hollywood art deco moderne décor style captures the fun of movie-making with the allure of Hollywood's golden era, while the Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel is designed to take Guests back to the Victorian era with its brilliant white towers and red shingled rooftops.

Updating classic Disney attractions with new magic and the latest technology is an ongoing mission for Imagineers. A state-of-the-art, re-Imagineered Space Mountain is expected to open at Disneyland Resort in 2005, featuring new special effects and digital technology to thrill new generations of space travelers. Guests will also find surprises in other classic attractions, including the Haunted Mansion at Disneyland.

Turtle Talk with Crush opened at Epcot in November.

A memorable moment — with everyone's favorite mouse.