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Reflections on the Opening Ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympics

Writer's picture: Studio MatizStudio Matiz

In the universe of art and communication, every detail of an event is the result of profound study, research, and dedication. The Opening Ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, held on July 26, 2024, exemplifies how an event of this magnitude demands a deep and transformative elaboration.


Image: Unsplash


The historic decision to hold the ceremony along the Seine River, instead of in a stadium, brought a bold and innovative approach. With a route spanning 6 kilometers from east to west, the ceremony integrated Paris’s iconic monuments, such as the Trocadéro, offering both live and online audiences an immersive and grand experience.


The parade of athletes, conducted in boats equipped with cameras, elevated the level of proximity and accessibility, providing a more inclusive and spectacular experience. Naturally, an outdoor event of this magnitude faces challenges, such as weather conditions.

Image: Unsplash


With free entry for most spectators and the presence of large screens and speakers, the ceremony reflected Paris 2024’s commitment to an accessible and engaging celebration. However, given the complexity and scale of the event, it’s natural that some details might not go exactly as planned, and the perception of certain elements can vary widely between right and wrong, good and bad, as it’s far from simple math.


Thomas Jolly, the creative director behind this ceremony, is a renowned French ceremonialist known for his bold and creative work. Jolly has gained recognition for his striking theatrical productions, including directing the acclaimed "Carmen" at the Avignon Festival and his collaborations with the Comédie-Française Theater Company.


His visionary and daring approach also reflects in his directions of ceremonies and cultural events, where he combines impactful visual aesthetics with powerful narratives. Jolly's extensive experience and cultural sensitivity were crucial to the unique and ambitious approach of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games Opening Ceremony.


It’s important to acknowledge that events of this magnitude inevitably generate controversies and discussions. The ceremony sparked significant debates, particularly around a scene that some interpreted as a parody of the Last Supper, raising important questions about the limits of creativity and respect for religious beliefs. Thomas Jolly, the ceremonialist and creative director, denied the notion that the scene was a parody of the Last Supper, clarifying that his aim was to create a grand pagan celebration in homage to the gods of Olympus during the opening ceremony of the Paris Games.


As professionals in the fields of art, marketing, and communication, we understand that every aspect of a ceremony results from intense work and deep respect for cultural and historical context. The creativity involved in the Paris 2024 Opening Ceremony was carefully planned to reflect the values of diversity and the celebration of humanity.


Image: Unsplash


In the face of such debates, it is essential to seek a deeper understanding of the intentions and creative process. Innovation and artistic expression often challenge norms and provoke discussions, but these discussions should be based on comprehensive and contextual information.


We, at Studio Matiz, encourage everyone to reflect on the effort and dedication involved in organizing events of this magnitude. By approaching discussions with knowledge and respect, we can recognize and appreciate the importance of the creative process and the significant contribution of art to the Olympic experience.

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