The Chinese have warned: the opening ceremony of the Beijing 2022 Winter Games will not reach the dimensions and splendor of that of the Summer Games in 2008. The number of extras has been reduced, in particular due to the conditions climatic. And the health situation led the organizers to consider a more modest evening. But according to Yiannis Exarchos, the executive director of OBS (Olympic Broadcasting Services), the audiovisual branch of the IOC, the evening of Friday February 4, 2022 will not disappoint anyone. The Greek had the privilege of attending the rehearsal of the opening ceremony. Asked about his impressions during an IOC press point dedicated to media operations for the Beijing Games, Wednesday January 19, Yiannis Exarchos did not reveal any details. But he confided: “ What I can tell you is that this ceremony is probably as impressive as that of 2008 which, we know, was one of the most emblematic in the history of the Olympic Games. (photo above). It is just as impressive, just as moving, but completely different. It is also a reflection of our times. » Common point between the two events: Zhang Yimou. The Chinese director, known in particular for his film Wives and Concubines (1991), was at the helm of the opening of the Beijing Summer Games in 2008. He was chosen to direct, 14 years later, the opening of the Beijing Winter Games.
