Katy Perry has sparked controversy with her new music video for "Woman's World," which has been met with largely negative reactions. The video, featuring revealing outfits and a seemingly empowering message, has been criticized for being ironic and contradicting its intended message. However, in a follow-up Instagram clip, Perry explained that the video is meant to be sarcastic and over-the-top.
In the clip, shot on the set of the video, Perry humorously delivers pro-female slogans like "You can do it! You go girl!" and acknowledges that the "We Can Do It!" theme, featuring dancers dressed in Rosie the Riveter-inspired outfits, leans into the male gaze. Her exaggerated delivery and comments like "We're really overplaying it" suggest a deliberate attempt to challenge expectations and create a satirical commentary on the portrayal of women in media.
The video, released on Thursday night, generated significant backlash, particularly due to its revealing costumes and the involvement of producer Dr. Luke, who has been accused of sexual misconduct. However, Perry insists that the reaction was anticipated and that the video serves as a "reset" for her perception of "feminine divine."
The singer, known for her playful and often provocative persona, has always pushed boundaries. This latest effort suggests a more deliberate attempt to tackle complex themes related to femininity and female empowerment.
While the meaning behind the video may not be immediately clear, Perry hints at a deeper message and a "whole different world" that will be revealed in the weeks to come.
Her upcoming album, "143," is set to be released on September 20th, and fans are eagerly awaiting the full context and potential explanation for the controversial "Woman's World" video. It remains to be seen whether Perry's explanation will resonate with viewers and whether the video will be seen as a successful satire or a misstep in her artistic journey.