Jay Lerner-Z said: "I loved every second, from start to finish.
The sights of Paris can not fail. Rain be damned. A shame Notre Dame could not be completed in time, but we can't have everything. I think there was little to complain about. I especially loved the Queerness of certain moments. Such inclusivity. The flag-raising, anthems, and pomp and ceremony is normally the type of nationalistic grandiosity I can't stand, but when it includes the whole of humanity I can't complain an it has undeniable power. Of course the grand finale, the hot air baloon flame cauldron followed by the glorious return of Saint Celine can not be beaten. Ever. She really is an Olympian in her own right. Her performance last night was her own personal gold medal.
Follow that, LA."
I did like how they featured the construction happening at Notre Dame. It almost had a Cirque feel to it.
And I also loved how they were all inclusive and featured the gay/queer community. I was expecting some online backlash over the 3 in the library. I LOVED Kelly Clarkson's reaction when they shut the door to the room! I was reading that there is some far right group over there that had a problem with the fashion show and the drag queens. They also had a problem with the rapper that performed. I loved the concept with the rapper and the marching band (That was part of the problem these people had that she was performing with this band.) but she just kind of had no personality. She just flipped her hair and was just halfway dancing.
I read that the Cauldron/balloon will be raised in the air at around 7:00 in the evening and lowered again for daytime hours for people to walk up to and see.
I actually got to watch the whole Marie Antoinette segment and it was simply brilliant.
Just an outstanding job. I am hoping that since this is a first, they filmed it all and may possibly put together a video of the whole thing uninterrupted with no commentators. And I would love to own pretty much all of the music and songs used and composed for the ceremonies.
I just don't see LA topping this. And really, they don't have to. I am excited to see what Italy has in store for the Winter Olympics opening ceremonies.
Just give the world Love. - S. Wonder