Grow Review – A Polished Pumpkin Growing Caper Filled with Perky Charm and Humor Expertise
This upbeat British children's film features five different writers credited with the script, with a pair who contributed “additional material”. This could explain why the story beats unfold with such metronomic precision, and the characters seem as though they were developed in a controlled environment. Ironically, the backdrop is a homestead farm where agronomist-owner Dinah chooses organic methods motivated by her magical niece Charlie, who can sense the feelings of plants through touch.
A Budding Relationship and a Contest-Winning Gourd
Having only recently met, for reasons the otherwise sleek screenplay fails to explain, Charlie and Dinah bond with one another across a few seasons – which aligns with the duration needed to cultivate a pumpkin for the annual village competition. Charlie hopes to use the prize money to locate her mom, rumored to have left for pursue stardom in California.
The supporting cast is filled with charming comic performances by veteran British actors.
Notable Cameos and Villainous Rivals
The maternal figure later emerges portrayed by a well-known actress, similar to Rosheuvel, has a background in popular series. Additionally, the cast includes a quirky horticulturist portrayed by Nick Frost, who offers pumpkin-growing tips to Dinah and Charlie. At the same time, Tim McInnerny and Jane Horrocks play the Smythe-Gherkins, the evil local elites determined to win the competition for glory alone since they don’t need the monetary reward.
- Nick Frost excels in the role of a bohemian gardener.
- The foes add comedic tension as affluent competitors.
- The youthful Dominic McLaughlin stars as Charlie’s pal Oliver.
Youthful Talent and Filmmaking Style
While his Scottish tone seems somewhat out of place in this setting, his subtle performance and humor sense are so adept it’s no surprise he was chosen for a leading part in an upcoming series. Director John McPhail maintains a buoyant comedy tone and stays unobtrusive with what is meant to be suitable pre-bedtime entertainment during a particular time of year.
