The Paris Olympics Opening Ceremonies paid homage to French culture and history through a series of 12 themed performances along the Seine River. The event featured references to iconic figures such as Joan of Arc, Marie Curie, and the fictional character Arsène Lupin. The parade also included nods to French literature, with a torchbearer representing characters like the Phantom of the Opera and Quasimodo from “The Hunchback of Notre Dame”.
The event also featured a choreographic sequence on the scaffolding of the Notre Dame cathedral, paying tribute to French craftsmanship and the culture of Paris. References to French writers Victor Hugo and songs from the French Revolution added depth to the performance.
The parade continued with a scene at the Louvre museum, where the torchbearer encountered living characters from famous paintings. The theft of the Mona Lisa and its recovery by the Minions, characters from the “Despicable Me” franchise, added a playful touch to the ceremony.
Further, 10 gold statues emerging from the Seine honored prominent women in French history, including Simone de Beauvoir and Paulette Nardal. The event aimed to celebrate French culture and history while also emphasizing gender equality and diversity.
Overall, the Paris Olympics Opening Ceremonies showcased the rich tapestry of French culture and history, weaving together references to literature, art, music, and notable figures to create a vibrant and engaging spectacle for viewers worldwide.
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