Katy Perry Is Cleopatra (With a Grill) in “Dark Horse” Music Video: Watch

How do you say "problematic" in hieroglyphics?

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Accusations of cultural appropriation over her geisha-themed performance of “Unconditionally” at the American Music Awards don’t seem to have dampened Katy Perry’s spirits: the siren is up to her old tricks in a high-concept, high-octane video for her latest single “Dark Horse” that sees her transforming into the Egyptian queen Cleopatra. (Katy Patra, if you will.) Predictably, there are lots of candy-bright hues and elaborate costumes, as well as a guest spot from rapper Juicy J. Somewhat less predictably, Perry wears a grill. And not predictably at all, there are Flamin’ Hot Cheetos.

Cue the thinkpieces.

Accusations of cultural appropriation over her geisha-themed performance of “Unconditionally” at the American Music Awards don’t seem to have dampened Katy Perry’s spirits: the siren is up to her old tricks in a high-concept, high-octane video for her latest single “Dark Horse” that sees her transforming into the Egyptian queen Cleopatra. (Katy Patra, if you will.) Predictably, there are lots of candy-bright hues and elaborate costumes, as well as a guest spot from rapper Juicy J. Somewhat less predictably, Perry wears a grill. And not predictably at all, there are Flamin’ Hot Cheetos.

Cue the thinkpieces.