I used to pass the Olympic site each morning on a train on my way to work before moving to Perth. What a transformation.

After Beijing I wondered how Britian could compete with such an opening (and Sydney's too etc) as the bar was raised each time.

Then the global financial hit, I thought this could be a great excuse for a games on a budget, Britian coud do that.....

......but they did so much more than that. Great opening. Best of British. Having a film director involved gave it a real polished finish. Great humour.

what was that German Ambassadors "salute" to his team about?

I noticed that too, & thought it unfortunate - but he was using his left hand (I think). Probably just pointing out how high their high jumpers can go.

Must admit I spotted that too, and actually re-wound it to make sure I'd seen correctly

Would be interesting to see what any German guys on here think or maybe can explain it?

I did not watch all but the opening scene based on industrial revolution with Isambard Kingdom Brunel was a spectacle.

The transformation from Britains green land to the industrial scene was superb. Kenneth Brannagh played his part well also

I just enjoyed how it linked history to culture in such a dramatic, colourful and vibrant way.

Not sure about Paul McCartney though

It was very very very very good
British with some fine humor!!
You islanders can be proud

I am quite glad I had turned off by that part. The last few times I have seen him perform I have had an overwhelming wish he had bowed out at his peak.

The only thing that would have been worse would have been Cliff Richard (or maybe Bruce Forsyth or Shirley Bassey)

Sorry, but IMHO all well past their "sell-by" dates

Bud

I refused to watch it because there was not enough Simon Cowell for my American tastes... just kidding, it was very entertaining.