They are supposed to be interesting. There is no story here about Canada as we know it.
The main thing is that it is not entertaining. The fears of Turin come true.
OK -so what the hell did you want? It's couple of hours that showcases the country. What do you think should be showcased? Bay Street? Perogy-ation? the Curmugeoness of Canada? I'm thinking nothing they'd come out with, you'd approve of. Me? Yeah, I liked the fiddler in the canoe - I happen to like Ashley McIsaac. I like kitchen parties - they're fun - might not be the cultural high point of your life maybe, but they're fun, they're friendly and they're welcoming. I guess by you, representing this part of Canada is boring and unrepresentative. Oh yeah, I guess the Maritimes aren't 'cultured' or 'representative' of what Canadians are. I guess. The whole First Nations thing? Loved it! And guess what - the Europeans love it as well - and lets face it - part of the Olympics is grabbing the interest of foreigners.You won't grab it by showing yourself to be the same as the person you're trying to impress. (Learned that in a Marketing Class). I liked the inclusion of the First Nations - that Fancy Dancer in the green never stopped - he was awesome - and it was really well done.
Look - I'm no fan of the Olympics, but these opening ceremonies aren't bad.
You say that "There is no story here about Canada as we know it." Are you using the 'Royal We'? Because as an artistic representation ? It spoke as much as it was supposed to. And I might add that you're big on the critique, but you haven't said what you think should have been - if indeed you have any ideas at all. My guess is that you just bitch because that's your nature. Oh well, someone has to be the curmudgeon ...