Dinner In America: Complete Lyrics and Scene Analysis of the “Watermelon Song”

Adam Rehmeier’s Dinner in America, a quirky punk rock comedy, displays all the elements of a film destined for cult status. Premiering at the 2020 Sundance Film Festival, the movie experienced a polarizing reception and left the festival without securing a distribution deal. It wasn’t until two years later that the film made its self-released debut, garnering little attention at first. However, an unexpected resurgence ensued, primarily driven by the influence of social media. Clips from the film began to go viral, enabling a growing audience to discover its unique charm, ultimately leading to a successful return to theaters with sold-out repertory screenings nationwide.

The narrative centers on Simon (Kyle Gallner), a punk rocker involved in petty crimes, and Patty (Emily Skeggs), a quirky girl infatuated with his band, who gives him shelter as he hides from law enforcement. As they navigate the complexities of their unusual yet captivating relationship, the film showcases the evolution of their bond.

Patty’s Performance of “Watermelon Song”in Dinner in America

A Standout Scene Featuring an Earworm

The film primarily features Simon and Patty as a two-character narrative, delving into their deepening relationship. Simon assists Patty in gaining empowerment, challenging her past trauma by confronting her former employer over unpaid wages and taking a stand against her bullies in comical, yet impactful, ways. Their relationship culminates in a significant moment marked by the unforgettable “Watermelon Song.”

After an intimate encounter, Simon casually picks up his guitar and coaxingly invites Patty to vocalize lyrics she had composed. Despite her initial reluctance, Patty eventually pours out an unexpectedly catchy tune, showcasing her raw talent.

I’m a watermelon slammed into your driveway Crack me open so I feel the air inside me Like a tongue, tongue In my eardrum, dumb, dumb Music boyfriend, I’m your yum, yum Call me and I’ll come F**k the rest of them F**k em all F**k ’em all but us Am I dreaming, or did you just kiss me? You don’t know it, but you already miss me Like a tongue, tongue In my eardrum, dumb, dumb Music boyfriend, I’m your yum, yum Call me and I’ll come F**k the rest of them F**k em all F**k ’em all but us F**k the rest of them F**k ’em all F**k ’em all but us But us, but us F**k ’em all but us

Patty’s growing confidence during her performance captivates Simon, illustrating a transformative moment for both her character and their relationship. This pivotal scene not only solidifies their emotional connection but also marks a crucial development within a film that initially presented itself as a subversive punk comedy.

Watch “Watermelon Song”Scene

YouTube Link

At its heart, Dinner in America is a narrative about rebellious outsiders carving out their identities and finding empowerment in unexpected ways. The “Watermelon Song”serves as the film’s emotional crescendo, capturing core themes like self-expression, rebellion, and personal transformation—all wrapped in a catchy melody that resonates with audiences.

Skeggs’ Quick Creation of “Watermelon Song”

Collaboration with Director Adam Rehmeier

Patty and Simon screaming excitedly in a pickup truck in Dinner In America

Emily Skeggs, who is not unfamiliar with the stage having been nominated for a Tony Award for her role in the musical Fun Home, debuted her songwriting capabilities with “Watermelon Song”.Early in the production phase of Dinner in America, Skeggs and director Adam Rehmeier made the conscious choice to collaborate on the song, believing it instrumental for her portrayal of Patty. In a conversation with Movieweb, she reflects on the songwriting process:

“Part of the deal with this movie was that Adam and I were going to write a song together. It was one of the first things we did when we arrived on-location, which really set the tone for and really guided us towards where we knew Patty and Simon ultimately needed to meet.”

The duo managed to craft the song in just one day. Emily drew on Patty’s perspective, articulating thoughts and poetic expressions she envisioned her character would create. Skeggs cherished the experience, which kindled her appreciation for music composition:

“I basically wrote a bunch of stream-of-consciousness-Patty poetry and brought it to Adam, and we sat there and read through it and just kind of jammed — Kyle was there, too. Adam and I wrote the song in a day. It was really liberating in the sense that I was like, ‘Oh, I can write music. I can write songs.’

Currently, Skeggs is touring with Dinner in America, attending various screenings alongside her co-stars Kyle Gallner and Adam Rehmeier. She is also active in Los Angeles’ performance scene, showcasing her talent in a monthly production titled Mamma Mia, But Different at both the Upright Citizens Brigade and Dynasty Typewriter theaters.

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