Grow Review – A Refined Pumpkin Growing Caper Brimming with Lively Appeal and Comedic Talent
This lively UK family movie boasts five different writers listed for the screenplay, including two who contributed “additional material”. This might clarify why the narrative rhythm progress with clockwork accuracy, and the characters feel as if they were cultivated in a controlled environment. Paradoxically, the backdrop is a family-run farm where agronomist-owner Dinah chooses organic methods motivated by her magical niece Charlie, who feels plants’ emotions by touching them.
A Growing Bond and a Contest-Winning Gourd
Recently introduced, for reasons the otherwise polished script doesn't clarify, Dinah and Charlie bond with one another across a few seasons – which coincides with the time required to grow a pumpkin for the local yearly contest. Charlie aims to use the prize money to find her mother, rumored to have left for pursue stardom in California.
The ensemble cast is packed with charming comic performances by veteran British actors.
Star-Studded Appearances and Antagonistic Foes
The maternal figure eventually appears portrayed by a well-known actress, who, like Rosheuvel, has a background in hit shows. Moreover, the lineup features an eccentric gardener played by Nick Frost, who provides pumpkin-growing tips for the duo. Meanwhile, Tim McInnerny and Jane Horrocks depict the Smythe-Gherkins, the villainous upper-class neighbors determined to win the competition for glory alone as they lack need for the cash prize.
- Nick Frost excels in the role of a bohemian gardener.
- The foes bring humorous conflict as affluent competitors.
- Young Dominic McLaughlin stars as Charlie’s pal Oliver.
Young Actor's Skill and Filmmaking Style
Though his Scottish accent appears a bit random in this setting, his dry underplaying and humor sense are so skillful it’s no surprise he was chosen for a major role in a future show. Director John McPhail keeps a lighthearted humorous vibe and doesn’t interfere with what is destined to be suitable pre-bedtime entertainment during a particular time of year.
