Olympics Rio 2016

Torch Relay | Opening & Closing Ceremony

Filmmaster was the organization responsible for managing the Olympic Torch, the objective, besides engaging the population and building pride for the Olympic Games, was to spread the values of peace, equality and fraternity represented by the Olympic Flame. Based on a one thousand year-old tradition, the Torch Relay aims to bring hope and times of harmony to the people, distinguishing sports heroes and other representatives, sharing equal values as those deserving to be torchbearers.
Torch Relay was held in all of Brazil for a period of 95 days. Every day, 120 vehicles and 350 staff would travel for an average of 400km. In total, more than 320 cities were visited and 12,000 torchbearers were proud to carry the Olympic flame. Hotels’ logistic was carried in 83 cities, including staff, sponsors and security.

The opening ceremony of the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, held at the legendary Maracanã stadium in Rio de Janeiro, was an event of extraordinary magnitude, characterized by a rich celebration of music, colors, and fireworks. Produced by Filmmaster, the ceremony marked the beginning of the 31st edition of the Games and saw the participation of athletes from 206 countries, along with the special team of refugees making their historic first Olympic appearance in Brazil.
The ceremony was a celebration of Brazilian history and culture, taking viewers on a fascinating journey through the nation's key moments, from the colonial period to urbanization. With at least three billion viewers worldwide, it was also a tribute to the host country, showcasing its rich and complex identity.

The ceremony also addressed crucial themes such as peace and environmental sustainability, conveying a powerful message of commitment to a sustainable future, highlighted by the symbolic gesture of each delegation carrying a seed destined to be planted in the Amazon rainforest. The bicycles laden with plants separating the delegations further emphasized the importance of shared collaboration and responsibility in preserving our planet. The ceremony concluded with the appearance of the five Olympic rings, all in one color: the green of the trees, symbolizing hope for a future where nature and humanity can coexist in harmony.

The closing ceremony of the 2016 Rio Olympics, curated by Filmmaster, transformed into a vibrant tribute to Brazilian art, culture, and joy, despite the challenges posed by the weather. From the outset, the engaging rhythms of Brazil permeated the atmosphere, thanks to the talent of Barbatuques, who with their body percussion kicked off a veritable music festival. Dancers dressed as parrots, with iconic images of Rio at their feet, danced ending with a choreography that recreated the 5 Olympic rings, all in vibrant colors. Popular music, traditional songs of the Guarani Indians, and local electronic sounds accompanied the entrance of the 207 delegations, who entered the stadium together, transmitting a message of unity and brotherhood.

For the first time in Olympic history, the Olympic Committee also dedicated a special recognition to the volunteers, acknowledging their commitment and dedication to the organization of the 2016 Rio Games. Thus, amidst samba notes, vibrant colors, and a palpable sense of community, the 2016 Rio Olympics concluded, with the handing over of the Olympic flag to Tokyo, the host city of the next Olympics in 2020.