The Cathay Theatre is one of the cinemas broadcasting the Paris Olympic Games. [Photo: Shanghai Observer]

Many Shanghai citizens opted for a unique viewing experience by watching the opening ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympic Games on July 27 on the silver screens instead of in front of their TVs. 

"This year marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and France. And it is the first time that the Olympics are being broadcast live in cinemas. So my family and I came to experience it," said a viewer surnamed Wu.

The big screens allow viewers to better enjoy the visual effects of the opening ceremony, capturing memorable moments like the first-ever boat parade by athletes, the spectacular performances by global stars like Celine Dion, and the lighting of the Olympic flame. 

Viewers watches the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics in a cinema. [Photo/Shanghai Observer]

The cinemas' sound system also helped ignite the audience's passion, virtually transporting them to the Paris Olympics venue. 

Cinemas under the Huangpu Cultural and Tourism Group, including the Grand Theatre, Peace Cinema, and Cathay Theatre, have extended their operating hours beyond midnight to broadcast Paris 2024 events live. 

To enrich the audience's experience, the cinemas offer a variety of snacks as well as beverages during designated screenings to cheer for athletes and celebrate victories together.

The opening ceremony of Paris Olympics is seen on a big screen. [Photo/Shanghai Observer]

The broadcast mainly features popular events among Chinese sports enthusiasts, such as ping pong and badminton.

In comparison to the silence expected during a moive screening, audiences at the designated cinemas for the Olympic Games are allowed to cheer while watching the events.   

According to an industry insider, the cinemas will not prohibit viewers from speaking and cheering. Compared to outdoor screenings or sports bars, cinema halls have the advantage of soundproofing.

If you want to book a ticket, you can use these three major ticketing platforms, Maoyan, China Film Pass, and Taopiaopiao to reserve a seat in advance.

Source: Shanghai Observer