A newly-published Disney patent hints at a possible fiery Magic Mirror effect guests could see in Villains Land at Magic Kingdom.
Updated Silk Flame Effect Could Bring Magic Mirror to Life
The patent, titled “Fan Effect System”, was filed on July 8, 2025, then published and granted on November 3, 2026. It lists Central Florida-based inventors Daniel Joseph, Jessica Klouda, Jason Monahan, and Miles Maline.
It describes an upgraded version of a traditional silk flame effect, which utilizes fabric blown by a fan and LED lights to create fake fire. This technology aims to be more realistic than existing systems, which are limited in extension capabilities and customizability.
The patent’s system includes a brushless fan that can achieve higher speeds than fans used in conventional systems, potentially up to 60 meters per second. The translucent or transparent fabric could then be deployed almost instantly and at greater heights. When the effect is over, the fabric could retract.
This could also be accomplished at different angles. For example, the “fire” could blow sideways instead of up.
The system could be attached to stationary or moving objects, such as a statue, prop, robot, animatronic figure, or a vehicle like a parade float. It could even be attached to or held by a performer.
The effect could be paired with video projections as well as lighting, which could change images or colors for various effects.
The patent notes its potential use for fire, smoke, and laser effects, as well as the appearance of characters, such as a “ghastly character.” Of course, ghosts are referenced in the patent’s title and we could see such tech utilized at The Haunted Mansion, but illustrations in the patent point to Villains Land with an obvious depiction of the Magic Mirror’s face appearing in a burst of flame on a surface.
One of the Villains Land rides will be a dark ride into the Evil Queen’s palace and catacombs. Hosted by the Magic Mirror, guests will travel into the mystical Mirror Realm and meet various villains. This ride is almost certainly where the effect would appear.
As well all patents, however, there is no guarantee this technology makes it way to the parks or a timeframe.
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The post Disney Reveals Fiery Magic Mirror Effect That Could be Coming to Villains Land appeared first on WDW News Today.
