Showmanship, spectacle, effervescent beauty and performance have always gone hand-in-hand with the City of Lights. Could there be a more appropriate city than Paris for the Olympic opening ceremony?
If the Olympic Games are the utmost test of skill, a challenge to approach the human limit for athleticism and mastery of a sport, the opening ceremony is the most grandiose display of art and culture. The championships of performance and flair.
The quadrennial ceremonies are nothing less than iconic, giving host nations the chance to present their most vicious selves. And what better place for France to do that than under the looming lights of the Eiffel Tower?
Follow along with us here on Sportsnet for live updates and best moments from what should prove to be a bright and spectacular opening ceremony from Paris.
Gaga for Gaga
Would it be Madame Gaga in Paris?
As chic as ever, the eccentric pop star put on a feather-filled show on the edge of the river. She sang “Mon Truc En plume” by French performer Zizi Jeanmaire.
Her turn to more jazzy sounds and show tunes was perfect for the Cabaret-influenced performance, drawing shades of Liza Minnelli with her showmanship and Diana Krall with her abilities on the piano keys.
However, no matter how much you may have paid attention in high school French class, chances are it was somewhat tough to fully follow along with Lady Gaga’s singing accent. Even French President Emmanuel Macron looked slightly confused.
Hang it in the Louvre
Straight out of a Renaissance painting, smoke in the colours of the French flag emerged from a bridge overlooking the Seine as intricate details and artistry were projected onto the bridge itself. Take that Botticelli.
The Olympics: Directed by Damien Chazelle?
A promo video featuring French football legend Zinedine Zidane running through the streets, metro and crypts of Paris kicked off the festivities.
The directorial vision was certainly an interesting one, as it began with a possible nod to Damien Chazelle’s La La Land, with bright colours, traffic jams and a swinging jazz soundtrack.
The torch was then passed to a group of kids as they boarded a boat that looked like it was guided by Charon, the ferryman on the river Styx. Greek mythology might be a bit on the nose there.
No spirits dampened in Paris
What’s a little rain? If the downpour wasn’t enough to put out the Olympic flame, it certainly won’t be enough to dampen the spirits at the opening ceremony.
Athletes and spectators alike are decked out in some rain-proof ponchos to guard from the elements. Even better: they’re see-through, so the fashion on display for each country’s ceremonial garb isn’t watered down as they sail across the Seine.
A fit for a king
If you paid attention in history class, you’d know the French don’t have a ton of love for royalty. Basketball royalty might get a somewhat different treatment at the Olympic Games.
King James donned a suit made to stand out from the rest, a sweet white coat with red and blue accented lapels from Ralph Lauren perfect for a post on LeagueFits. He paired it with a pair of normal, run-of-the-mill light blue jeans, perfect for a post on literally any construction site in Downtown Toronto.
Only the best for the first U.S. men’s basketball flag bearer.
Being an Olympic torchbearer: Nuthin’ but a G thang
Every time it comes around, there are always a few celebrity cameos during the torch relay as the Olympic flame makes its way to the cauldron to signify the official start of the games. From Wayne Gretzky in Vancouver and Muhammad Ali in Atlanta to … Snoop Dogg in Paris?
Well-known for doing sidequests in his spare time — like starting up a cooking show with Martha Stewart or playing flag football — this one might take the cake. The Doggfather strutted his way through the streets of Paris carrying the flame and making sure not to “Drop it Like It’s Hot,” wearing some gold kicks to match the sheen of the City of Lights and looked as “Young, Wild and Free” as ever.
The Paris 2024 opening ceremony was a spectacular event that showcased the rich history and culture of France. From the moment the ceremony began, viewers were treated to a visual feast of music, dance, and art that celebrated the spirit of the Olympic Games.
One of the highlights of the opening ceremony was the parade of athletes from around the world. Athletes from over 200 countries marched into the stadium, proudly waving their flags and representing their nations. The crowd erupted into cheers as each country was announced, creating a sense of unity and camaraderie among the athletes.
Another standout moment was the lighting of the Olympic cauldron. A torchbearer carried the Olympic flame into the stadium, symbolizing the start of the Games. The flame was then used to light the cauldron, which burned brightly throughout the ceremony, serving as a beacon of hope and inspiration for all in attendance.
The opening ceremony also featured performances by some of France’s most talented artists. From ballet dancers to opera singers, the entertainment was world-class and showcased the diversity and creativity of French culture. The music and dance performances were accompanied by stunning visual effects and pyrotechnics, creating a truly unforgettable experience for all who watched.
As the ceremony came to a close, the president of the International Olympic Committee delivered a powerful speech, emphasizing the importance of unity and sportsmanship in the Olympic movement. The president’s words resonated with athletes and spectators alike, reminding everyone of the values that the Games represent.
Overall, the Paris 2024 opening ceremony was a resounding success, setting the stage for an exciting and memorable Olympic Games. With its mix of tradition, innovation, and entertainment, the ceremony captured the essence of what makes the Olympics so special. As athletes prepare to compete in their respective events, they can draw inspiration from the spirit of unity and friendship that was on display during the opening ceremony.