Film Analysis: Grow – A Polished Pumpkin Growing Caper Filled with Lively Appeal and Comedic Talent
This lively UK family movie features five different writers credited with the script, with a pair who contributed “extra content”. This might clarify why the story beats progress with clockwork accuracy, and the characters feel as if they were cultivated in a controlled environment. Ironically, the setting is a family-run farm where agronomist-owner Dinah decides to go organic after being inspired by her magical niece Charlie, who can sense plants’ emotions through touch.
A Budding Relationship and a Contest-Winning Gourd
Having only recently met, for reasons the otherwise polished script doesn't clarify, Dinah and Charlie bond with one another over several seasons – which coincides with the duration needed to cultivate a pumpkin for the local yearly contest. Charlie hopes to utilize the award cash to locate her mom, rumored to have run off to become a movie star in California.
The supporting cast is filled with delightful humorous roles from seasoned UK performers.
Star-Studded Appearances and Villainous Rivals
The maternal figure eventually appears portrayed by a familiar face, who, like Rosheuvel, has a background in hit shows. Moreover, the lineup features a quirky horticulturist portrayed by Nick Frost, who provides pumpkin-growing tips for the duo. At the same time, Jane Horrocks and Tim McInnerny depict the Smythe-Gherkins, the villainous upper-class neighbors set on winning the contest for glory alone since they don’t need the monetary reward.
- Nick Frost shines as a hippy horticulturist.
- The foes add comedic tension as wealthy rivals.
- The youthful Dominic McLaughlin stars as Charlie’s pal Oliver.
Young Actor's Skill and Directorial Flair
While his Scottish tone appears a bit random in this setting, his dry underplaying and humor sense are so skillful it’s expected he has been cast for a major role in a future show. Filmmaker John McPhail keeps a buoyant comedy tone and stays unobtrusive with what is meant to be suitable pre-bedtime entertainment for a specific seasonal period.
