Zhang Yimou: A once in a lifetime opportunity
(China Daily)
Updated: 2006-07-07 08:59 Since this team is so big, will it mean diverse opinions and, eventually, a
loss of distinguishing features?
We'll be careful about this. Because the opening and closing ceremonies of
the Olympic Games are art shows by nature, we of course must have our own
characteristics and distinguishing features. Luckily, it's been decided that the
team of directors will have the final say, no matter how many advisors we'll
have. We hope the opening and closing ceremonies will have distinct
characteristics. To be director of the ceremonies is a great privilege for me.
But you'll have to sacrifice a lot, such as shooting movies?
Yes. I'll finish the job on hand and then stop shooting movies. There will be
many movies to make, but the Olympic Games will be a once-in-a-lifetime
opportunity for Chinese people. I am greatly honoured to be able to contribute
to the nation.
As an artist, such creative work will be a rare opportunity.
Do you feel pressured by the task?
The directors on the team like to joke to one another, 'you'll know if you're
a hero or a criminal of one thousand years on August 8, 2008.' Of course we feel
pressure. But I believe in the capabilities of our team members. We cannot do
our best if we think about the pressure all the time. I believe our team will do
a very good job.
What do you think about the Olympic slogan "One World One Dream?"
I was not expecting such a good slogan. I had expected the Olympic slogan to
be political, because usually only we artists mention the word 'dream.' This
proves that Chinese society has advanced and become more open, which makes
dreams part of the slogan.
What are your expectations of the Beijing Olympic Games?
It will be the most distinguished Olympic Games in history. It'll be best
ever in the world in terms of opening and closing ceremonies, services,
volunteering and so on. All visitors will not regret making the trip here. As a
Chinese, I am confident and I feel proud.
(China Daily 07/07/2006 page5)
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