Sabrina Carpenter’s “Taste” video pays tribute to these classic horror films

Carpenter’s latest music video, featuring Gen Z horror icon Jenna Ortega, references several classic horror movies.

Sabrina Carpenter’s latest video for the single “Taste” offers fans a cinematic experience filled with homages to classic horror films. 

The video, directed by Dave Meyers, is part of her album Short n’ Sweet and was released on August 23. Known for her love of movies, Carpenter crafted a visual narrative that is both chilling and darkly humorous, paying tribute to some of the most iconic horror films in cinema history.

In “Taste,” Carpenter partners with Gen Z horror icon Jenna Ortega to deliver a story of revenge. The video sees Carpenter’s character seeking retribution against her ex-boyfriend, played by Rohan Campbell, and his new girlfriend, portrayed by Ortega. 

The three-minute clip escalates into a bloody yet comedic battle, featuring a series of gruesome encounters, including a body-swapping scene that culminates in Ortega’s character accidentally cutting her boyfriend in half.

Throughout the video, fans can spot references to several classic horror films. The video draws inspiration from Death Becomes Her, with a scene where Carpenter’s character is left with a gaping hole in her stomach, reminiscent of the 1992 film’s dark humour and fantastical elements. 

The video also includes nods to Ginger Snaps, Kill Bill: Volume 1, Psycho, and Addams Family Values, with each reference seamlessly woven into the storyline, adding layers of depth for horror aficionados.

The climax leaves Carpenter and Ortega’s characters walking off together, bonding over their twisted ordeal, while Carpenter’s character delivers the line, “You kill me,” underscoring the video’s tongue-in-cheek tone.