Kill The Director

The Wombats' song 'Kill The Director' is a witty and self-aware critique of romantic comedies and the unrealistic expectations they set for relationships. The lyrics open with the protagonist meeting someone who makes him feel 'seasick,' a metaphor for the overwhelming and disorienting emotions that come with infatuation. Despite her distinctive qualities, he feels a sense of inadequacy, as these attributes are 'not mine to have.' This sets the stage for a narrative filled with self-doubt and confusion.

The chorus, 'If this is a rom-com, kill the director,' serves as a rebellious outcry against the scripted nature of romantic comedies. The protagonist is frustrated with the idea that love should follow a predictable, movie-like script. The reference to 'Eastenders,' a popular British soap opera, further emphasizes the absurdity of trying to live up to these dramatized portrayals of romance. The repeated line 'This is no Bridget Jones' underscores the rejection of these clichéd narratives, as 'Bridget Jones' is a quintessential rom-com character known for her romantic misadventures.

The song also touches on the protagonist's internal struggle and societal advice, such as 'Carrots help us see much better in the dark' and 'Don't talk to girls; they'll break your heart.' These lines reflect the mixed messages and confusion often experienced in young love. The mention of 'the angst of a teenage band' highlights the youthful, almost naive perspective from which the song is written. Ultimately, 'Kill The Director' is a humorous yet poignant exploration of the complexities and frustrations of modern romance, wrapped in The Wombats' signature indie rock sound.