Zhang Yimou is best known for his 1991 film "Raise the Red Lantern" and his
2004 title "House of Flying Daggers," both of which were nominated for Oscars.
He has been recently appointed chief director for both the opening and closing
ceremonies of the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games. In directing the ceremonies, Zhang
will have the support of an international team including multi-Oscar winning
Hollywood director Steven Spielberg.
China's famous
director Zhang Yimou.[filephoto] |
Zhang says that
this "brainstorming of Eastern and Western artists" will give the Games an
international flavour while retaining essential Chinese characteristics.
The following interview is reproduced from the forthcoming issue of Beijing
2008, published by the Beijing Organizing Committee for the Games of the XXIX
Olympiad (BOCOG).
When did you first time watch the Olympic Games?
The 1984 Games, in Los Angeles. At that time, I enjoyed watching gala
performances.
Which opening ceremony impressed you most?
The scenes of athletes lighting the Olympic flame have impressed me most,
especially at the Barcelona Olympic Games in 1992, when the flame was lit by a
burning arrow. At the Sydney Olympic Games in 2000, it was quite spectacular
when Cathy Freeman lit the Olympic flame at the centre of a waterfall. The
Australians had a perfect combination of fire and water.
I also enjoy watching the athletes entering the stadium. This could last more
than an hour. To see so many athletes of different races and colours makes me
feel that the world is just so big.
You're always good at using Chinese elements in your work. What kind of
Chinese elements are you going to use this time?
As a matter of fact, there are just too many well-known Chinese elements,
such as lanterns, kites and Peking operas. There are also many aspects of
Chinese culture that few people know. For instance, I saw many different kinds
of performances when I went to Yunnan to collect folk arts. They are absolutely
new to people outside.
Do you plan to use some of these lesser-known Chinese elements?
I hope so. I want some variations.
Of course, the Olympics is part of the world's cultural legacy. We will not
only show our Chinese culture, but also promote the Olympic ideals and show the
international solidarity and the Olympic spirit of a great peaceful gathering.
Steven Spielberg is an advisor to the opening ceremony of the Games. What
suggestions has he made?
