Ariana Grande’s Break Free Video Is Just Like Britney Spears’ Oops I Did It Again

NASA may be struggling, but one rich tradition in American progress continues: pop stars going to space in their videos. The latest mission comes from Ariana Grande, whose video for “Break Free” featuring Zedd reminds me so much of Britney Spears’ “Oops I Did It Again.” Watch:

Let’s assess the comparisons with the scientific approach they demand, OK?

COQUETTISH BLINKING QUOTIENT

Brit: 8 out of 10. She dances hard, so there are times she needs to funnel oxygen to her other muscles.

Ariana: 11 out of 10. Those lashes do not stop fluttering, and this is in zero gravity at times. Impressive.

HALF-UP, HIGH-PONY HAIRDO

Brit: Slick, secured, and ready to whip.

Ariana: Ditto. It’s the exact same style.

HOKEY SPACE-SCIENCE INTRO

Brit: Check. Wonder what that dude’s up to now.

Ariana: Check. There’s a warning about possibly soiling yourself because of the intensity of the party, but trust me, you don’t have to worry.

DESTINATION PLANET

Brit: Mars.

Ariana: Mars by Dre (there couldn’t be more Beats product placement in this).

OVERHEAD FOOTAGE

Brit: Check.

Ariana: Check.

SPACE OUTFIT

Brit: Once-scandalous now practical-in-comparison red pleather bodysuit.

Ariana: Corset that, having seen Gravity, I know would not hold up outside the atmosphere.

WHO’S DRIVING THE SHIP?

Brit: A coterie of shirtless men in overalls.

Ariana: Zedd. And he’s taking it very seriously.