Synergy on high seas as Disneyland grabs for film-release treasure

Leave it to the Disney corporation to exploit every conceivable cross-promotion opportunity. With its film studio's blockbuster Pirates of the Caribbean 3, set for release towards the end of the month, the theme park has decided to change its Adventureland into Pirateland for the next two months. On a media tour late last week, Disneyland reps showed us how Tarzan's tree house on the Jungle River Cruise will hoist the Jolly Roger (skull-and-crossbones flag), voodoo doctors will engage children in a drum show, Mickey, Goofy and Pluto will dress in buccaneers' attire, and a character looking like Captain Jack Sparrow's double will complete the takeover. How's that for marketing synergy, matey!

'Also, the official Hong Kong gala premiere of the movie will be on May 22 at Disneyland,' its marketing rep added. 'For the first time ever, we've produced a collection of up to 200 pirate-themed and movie-related merchandise to be sold.'

So expect as many passengers wearing pirate hats as those with Mickey Mouse ears on the Tung Chung MTR line. The Disney landlubbers were also quick to point out that the campaign is in no way a response to Ocean Park's two new pandas. 'The decision ... was confirmed last December.'