The spectacular and widely-praised event attracted a record television audience of 34.2 million in the United States for an overseas opening ceremony while five million people tuned into watch it on the BBC in Britain, part of an estimated worldwide audience of four billion.

 

But Oscar-nominated filmmaker Zhang claimed that everything was far from perfect during the £52 million ceremony.

 

He said: "For example, there are performers who were injured.

 

"I blame myself for that.

 

"It might well have been avoided if I had given more detailed instructions.

 

"We had many difficulties.

 

"I do not like complaining, but sometimes there are obstacles you can not overcome, that you and your team have to face.

 

"What everyone cares about is the final result.

 

"We all know this, so we don't explain."

 

Zhang revealed that about 22,000 people took part in the gala, in which 15,000 costumes were used and 43,000 fireworks lit.

 

He admitted that it would be difficult for London to follow.

 

Zhang said: "I think they would feel pressured.

 

"But London might have other creative ideas.

 

"We can each have our own tour de force.

 

"I wish the London Olympics a success."        

 

Former London Mayor Ken Livingstone, who was in Beijing for the ceremony, said the opening was possibly the “greatest show ever put on in history of mankind” and did not think London should bother with trying to outdo the Chinese spectacular.