Theres also a helicopter SAMU89 heading for central Paris at the moment. From Mont Blanc Helicopters, so probably not a SAMU ? Part of the ceremony ?
He’s been hovering all evening! Generally near the Seine.
My favourite opening ceremony was when Greece hosted the games. Like SuePJ I am more interested in the ceremonies.
Did anyone else spot Jean Paul Gaultier ? An old skinny bald guy in a multi colour dress having a good time. I’m sure it was him 
Maybe a TV helicopter?
This bit isn’t being screened to a good quarter of the countries that sent teams.
I feel very sorry for all the performers, they are doing their best in miserable weather. And maintaining energy levels. Such as shame as everyone could do with a happy, feel-good evening. Macron looks as if he’s eating sour grapes - it would be good if he could get info the spirit of this and smile!
Overall I think it is representative of French culture, trying to put forward strong values of cultural diversity and equality, freedom, centuries old traditions and hard work. Part classic representations of France as people see it overseas alongside a showcase of how the French culture has evolved, but a bit too poncy. Not massively accessible, so you need an understanding of the French history and references. A bit like a quiz show as we’re trying to pick up all the references and people!
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We saw the naked (almost) green neptune lying on a bed singing, and thought ‘lets get in the tub’ it being 27 C outside. Just got back in and we seem to be getting to the finale with the torch. Maybe.
Absolutely, I can see that, but I’m not sure that it will translate for a worldwide audience.
And yes, the relentless rain is a bugger.
But who the hell is the woman on the boat! Nadal, Williams and Lewis I can identify…but not her.
Nadia Comaneci!
I take it all back, this is now very dull.
And another U-turn, the finale was great. Not a huge fan of Celine Dion, but was impressive.
Wow. How amazing and what a finale. An incredible technical triumph too.
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I really don’t know.
Despite my previous posts, I actually enjoyed the ceremony more as it progressed.
As the chain of people carrying the Olympic flame progressed I thought … I wonder who the oldest French olympic champion is. Surely he/she should have a role. And there he was at 100 years of age. The Montgolfiere was really good and Celine Dion finishing off as Édith Piaf was a good finish.
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Were you watching the opening of the 2012 Olympics on YouTube?
Ah didn’t you enjoy it? I did.
Thought the whole event was superbly choreographed (not just the dancers) but so ambitious - rather than using a tightly confined environment like a stadium the grandes sites of Paris provided an amazing backdrop and loved the narrative of delivering the torch from Zizou into street kids into amazing parcours , Lots more too to enthuse about. Looking back, London 2012, the only other opening ceremony I’ve seen in this century tho’ much praised at the time, seems vapid in comparison to this spectacle.
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An amusing review for those who missed it live
“Bach waving like a dentist at his own birthday party” 
Watched for just under an hour, got bored and switched off.
On that I agree. 
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As most of the profit from the crown estate goes to the UK treasury and a small percentage goes to the royal household they should all gain. As for my Queen being described by you as a slapper, that’s completely insulting. She’s actually very nice, I’ve met her.
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