Chinese sports fans are enjoying an unprecedented immersive viewing experience of the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, thanks to the introduction of live broadcasts in cinemas across the country. For the first time, audiences can gather in theaters to watch and cheer on their favorite athletes, bringing a new level of excitement and engagement to the Olympic viewing experience.
The initiative, which offers screenings in hundreds of cinemas nationwide, allows fans to enjoy a variety of events, including table tennis, badminton, diving, volleyball, basketball, and football, as well as the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics. This move aims to provide a novel way for the public to appreciate the performances of Chinese athletes on the global stage.
Viewers have described the cinema experience as a “visual and auditory feast,” with the large screens and advanced sound systems enhancing the excitement of the games. “It is an unprecedented immersive large-screen viewing that allows me to feel the passion for sports pulsating in my veins,” said a Chinese Olympic fan after watching an event in a cinema.
Lai, a resident of Chongqing Municipality, shared his experience of watching the opening ceremony: “The combination of the large screen and impressive sound system creates an immersive feeling, making you feel as though you are right there in the midst of the scene.” He noted the electrifying atmosphere when the Chinese delegation, led by flagbearers Ma Long and Feng Yu, appeared on screen, eliciting cheers and applause from the audience.
The cinematic viewing has also sparked a sense of community among sports fans. Many attendees wore T-shirts with “Go China” slogans, and cinemas have enhanced the experience by distributing Chinese national flags and showcasing Paris 2024 Olympics mascot Phryge dolls on seats.
In Beijing’s Chaoyang district, a cinema worker reported high demand for popular domestic sports events like table tennis and badminton, with full bookings for key matches. The level of interest and the number of inquiries about match schedules highlight the public’s enthusiasm for this new way of experiencing the Olympic Games.
Analysts suggest that the strong response to the cinematic screenings reflects the deep-rooted passion and admiration that Chinese people have for the Olympics. This new viewing method not only showcases a profound affection for the centennial event but also symbolizes a universal celebration that transcends national boundaries, embodying the Olympic spirit.