London Olympics 2012: A Cinematic Touch to the Opening Ceremony [PHOTOS]

It was unpredictable yet predictable though the man behind the opening ceremony of the London Olympics 2012 promised surprise - at least the cinematic touch to the whole setup was.

Yes, Oscar winning director Danny Boyle, the mastermind behind the opening ceremony, gave a feel of the reel world. The stadium was turned into a film set with green lawn, flowers, trees and everything that you see outside the stadium.

A helicopter carrying Daniel Craig hovered over the 80,000 capacity Olympic stadium, giving a "James Bond" feel. Popular comedian Rowan Atkinson was funny as ever in his Mr Bean character. In short, watching the ceremony was like watching a beautiful play in a theatre.

The opening ceremony began with Tour de France winner Bradley Wiggins ringing the 23-ton Olympic Bell.

LONDON OLYMPICS 2012 OPENING CEREMONY PHOTOS

Going by the theme "The Isles of Wonder", everything had a feel of yesteryear - bullock carts, costumes, getup, colour and what not. Industrial revolution in the 18th and 19th centuries was showcased, turning the stadium into a workshop.

The ceremony showcased the host nation - from National Health Servide (NHS) to British literature and much more. It was a blast from the past - a journey in time.

Her Majesty, the Queen was then received by the IOC president Jacques Rogge, and the UNION Flag was raised with children singing the national anthem of the United Kingdom.

Popular music of the nation from club music to rock was also celebrated with picture flash back of the old times to the present. Kissing scenes, including that of Prince Williams and Kate Middleton on their wedding day, were shown depicting love. Then Emeli Sande sang the hymn "Abide With Me" to a beautiful choreography.

The lighting was wonderful, making the stadium a magnificent picture. Olympic rings went into flames in the sky, which was a unique scene. Danny Boyle did give a spectacular show with his 15,000 strong performers.

Parade of the athletes followed after the formal ceremonial extravaganza. 203 nations took to the grounds in alphabetical order. Sushil Kumar, the bronze medallist at the Beijing Olympics, led the Indian contingents in the parade. India has a record 81 athletes representing the country in 13 disciplines at the London Olympics 2012. The Indian contingent comprises of 58 men and 23 women, and Ajit Pal Singh is the Chef de Mission.

Following speech by International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Jacques Rogge, Her Majesty, the Queen officially declared the Games open to the cheers of the 80,000 people at Olympic stadium in Stratford.

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