The 1981 Best Picture Oscar – winning film '' Chariots of Fire '' , which tells the story of two British athletes in the 1924 Olympics , was a recurring theme in promotions for the 2012 Olympics . A digitally re-mastered version of '' Chariots of Fire '' was released on 13 July 2012 and screened in over 100 UK cinemas as part of the celebrations , and a 2012 stage adaptation ran in London theatres from 9 May 2012 to 5 January 2013 . The film 's theme tune was performed during the Opening Ceremony by the London Symphony Orchestra , conducted by Simon Rattle . The performance was accompanied by a comedic skit by Rowan Atkinson , which included the opening beach-running footage from the film . A new orchestration of the film 's theme tune was played during each medal presentation of the Games
Opening Ceremony
2012 Summer Olympics opening ceremony
2012 Summer Olympics