Face it, the show was London's to tell us all about themselves however they wanted to. I probably wouldn't be too excited about an Iranian opening ceremonies but would try to learn what I could.
I have personal feelings (good & bad) about other countries that I feel USA is in daily competition with outside of the Olympics. I don't have to like what they do but I'm not going to complain about a form of propaganda because I can think for myself. That's why people keep moving to this country.
I liked the transition from agrarian society to industrial revolution & set design from a theatrical standpoint. The forging of the rings was pretty cool. It was pretty clear that progress was made by the few on the backs of the many. What's so different about China or most other places in regard to that?
The health care thing didn't do it for me. Childrens' literature is something for any country to be proud of. The fireworks over the London architecture was awesome. The Queen drop was hilarious. I never liked Mr. Bean but grew up with Monty Python & Benny Hill so I understand those that were into that humor. If they wanted to include disadvantaged or disabled people in their presentation, so what. Geez, some of you are pretty cruel about that. Without the support from all citizens in the host country, the overall product is of less quality and everyone can see what is really important to that society.
I was really hoping for Sir Roger to light the torch but that's my nostolgic side. I thought they already gave enough props to youth through music & the silly teen pop phone thing.
They needed to really focus on a national sport hero for an important moment of reflection. One who was the first, one who did inspire many who followed, Roger Bannister. Post WW2 that opened a door for many to ask what is possible not just in sport but in other endeavors.