Paris Olympics' closing ceremony aims for redemption amid scrutiny
The Olympic Games in Paris are approaching their conclusion. Much is already being said today about the forthcoming closing ceremony, which, following the scandal surrounding the opening ceremony, will be under particular scrutiny. The show's creator has indicated that, in response to the controversies, he has revised the script several times.
The Olympic Games in Paris will undoubtedly make history. From the very beginning, the French declared that it would be a unique event, a promise they fulfilled during the opening ceremony, which, for the first time, took place not in a hall, but on the River Seine flowing through Paris.
However, the French could not avoid controversies from the outset. During the ceremony, the show's creators inadequately portrayed the Olympic gods, which many saw as a parody of the painting "The Last Supper".
I think it was quite clear. There's Dionysus, who comes to the table... Why is he there? Because he is the god of feasting, wine, and the father of the Seine, the goddess of the Seine — explained Thomas Jolly later, quoted by "The Guardian".
the Olympic Games closing ceremony under special scrutiny
The significant outrage resulting from this misunderstanding, in extreme cases, has also manifested as threats directed at the ceremony's creator. Therefore, it is unsurprising that he decided to review the closing ceremony multiple times. Consequently, the final version has been altered several times.
Although the creators are not revealing what can be expected at Stade de France, we know that it will express "pride, love, and passion" from many perspectives. In addition to the athletes, renowned music stars and Tom Cruise, who will present a mysterious show, are also expected to appear on the stadium's pitch.
If everything goes well, we will have a great time. But I do not know of any edition of the Olympic Games where the closing ceremony changed the perception of the opening ceremony. It is the opening ceremony that sets the whole perception of the Games - said Thierry Reboul, the director of ceremonies, in an interview with "Le Parisien".
