Grow Review – A Refined Pumpkin Growing Caper Filled with Perky Charm and Comedic Talent
This lively British children's film boasts five different writers credited with the script, with a pair who provided “extra content”. This could explain why the narrative rhythm progress with such metronomic precision, and the characters seem as though they were developed in a controlled environment. Ironically, the setting is a family-run farm where farm-owner Dinah, an agronomist decides to go organic after being inspired by her magical niece Charlie, who can sense plants’ emotions through touch.
A Growing Bond and a Contest-Winning Gourd
Having only recently met, for motives the otherwise polished script fails to explain, Charlie and Dinah bond with one another over several seasons – which coincides with the duration needed to grow a pumpkin for the annual village competition. Charlie hopes to utilize the award cash to find her mother, said to have run off to become a movie star in California.
The ensemble cast is packed with delightful humorous roles by veteran British actors.
Star-Studded Appearances and Villainous Rivals
The mother character eventually appears portrayed by a well-known actress, similar to Rosheuvel, has a background in hit shows. Additionally, the lineup features an eccentric gardener portrayed by Nick Frost, who provides advice on growing pumpkins to Dinah and Charlie. At the same time, Jane Horrocks and Tim McInnerny play the Smythe-Gherkins, the villainous upper-class neighbors determined to win the contest purely for prestige as they lack need for the monetary reward.
- Nick Frost shines as a hippy horticulturist.
- The foes bring humorous conflict as wealthy rivals.
- 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 context, his subtle performance and humor sense are so skillful it’s no surprise he was chosen for a leading part in a future show. Director John McPhail keeps a buoyant comedy tone and doesn’t interfere with what is destined to serve as pre-bedtime entertainment during a particular time of year.
