You all know my problems with Kathy Beth Terry, Katy Perry‘s nerdy alter ego and the star of her latest song “Last Friday Night”: She’s a severely unfunny stereotype of a nerd, and her presence makes the song seem so grating. I’ve been looking for other ways to enjoy “Last Friday Night,” and I think I’ve found a solution: The American Sign Language version, starring Kathy’s brother Ronald Terry (prolific ASL performer Michael Chase DiMartino).
Reasons why I prefer this version:
1. Somehow Ronald is more bearable (and believable) as a socially awkward nerd.
2. His transformation actually makes him look hunky, unlike the ’80s duds they slapped on Kathy Beth.
3. In fact, they didn’t even try to set this in the ’80s and wind up with anachronistic references like the original “Last Friday Night” had.
4. This was obviously made on a small budget, and yet it’s more entertaining than the bevy of guest stars (Darren Criss, Kevin McHale) in Katy’s video.
5. The ASL is superb.
