There's only five days to go until the start of the Beijing Olympic Games, and the whole world is waiting to see how China's ancient culture will be represented during the opening ceremony. Renowned filmmaker Zhang Yimou has put aside all of his film projects in order to dedicate himself to conceiving and directing this awe-inspiring show. Before the secret of the opening ceremony are revealed on August 8th, let's look back at the involvement of Zhang Yimou in the highly anticipated sporting event.

People say Zhang Yimou knows what aspects of Chinese culture interest foreigners, and knows how to show them in style.

On Dec.14, 2006, Zhang Yimou's film "Curse of the Golden Flower" held a grand opening ceremony in Beijing. But Zhang didn't turn up, only delivering thanks through videos. At that early date, he had already began the work of preparing the opening and closing ceremonies for the Beijing Olympics. Throughout the following two years, Zhang decided to do just one thing: prepare for the Olympic ceremonies.

Zhang Yimou

Zhang Yimou said, "After I wrapped up work for "Curse of the Golden Flower" I devoted myself completely to the Olympic ceremonies. Because this is a very influential event, very important, and the responsibility is on me. I am going all out and doing my best to reward my countrymen who've been waiting for years to see this special moment. I couldn't waste my focus on other things, including shooting films, that's for sure."