DVD Review: Katy Perry's "Part of Me"

Katy Perry’s Part of Me documentary comes out today on DVD and, while it may not have done very well at the box office, it’s definitely worth seeing.  Of course, just like most of the other similar concert movies out there, viewers learn all about how Perry got into the music industry. 

There’s something a little interesting about her story, though.  Having grown up in a very strict Christian home with a minister for a father, Perry was not exposed to much in terms of popular culture.  She was in her teens when she was at a friend’s house and heard Alanis Morrissette for the first time.  She said that she was blown away by the Canadian singer’s honest lyrics and that moment left a real impression on her.  Indeed, footage of Perry’s earlier music show a clear influence from Morrissette’s Jagged Little Pill album, but in a good way. 

Seeing this evolution, as well as hearing her parents describe what it was like for them to learn that “I Kissed a Girl” was going to be her first single (as well as learning to accept her minimalist stage costumes) shed some real light into what it was like for her to emerge as a unique artist.

Her former husband, Russell Brand, is seen sparsely through the first part of the film and then it becomes apparent that all of her efforts to see him between shows has not paid off – they separated and Perry’s personal heartache cannot be denied. She’s exhausted and depressed but the show must go on.

If nothing else, viewers will probably develop a greater sense of respect for the singer.  Definitely worth watching.