Grow Review – A Refined Pumpkin Growing Caper Brimming with Perky Charm and Comedic Talent
This upbeat British children's film features five different writers credited with the script, with a pair who provided “extra content”. This might clarify why the narrative rhythm progress with clockwork accuracy, while the personalities feel as if they were cultivated hydroponically in a lab. Ironically, the backdrop is a family-run farm where agronomist-owner Dinah chooses organic methods after being inspired by her magical niece Charlie, who can sense the feelings of plants by touching them.
A Growing Bond and a Prize Pumpkin
Recently introduced, for reasons the otherwise sleek screenplay doesn't clarify, Charlie and Dinah get to know each other across a few seasons – which coincides with the time required to cultivate a pumpkin for the annual village competition. Charlie aims to utilize the award cash to locate her mom, rumored to have left for become a movie star in the US.
The supporting cast is filled with delightful humorous roles from seasoned UK performers.
Star-Studded Appearances and Antagonistic Foes
The mother character later emerges played by a familiar face, similar to Rosheuvel, has a background in hit shows. Moreover, the lineup features an eccentric gardener portrayed by Nick Frost, who provides pumpkin-growing tips to Dinah and Charlie. Meanwhile, Jane Horrocks and Tim McInnerny depict the Smythe-Gherkins, the villainous upper-class neighbors determined to win the competition purely for prestige as they lack need for the cash prize.
- Nick Frost shines in the role of a bohemian gardener.
- The foes bring humorous conflict as wealthy rivals.
- Young Dominic McLaughlin plays Charlie’s school friend Oliver.
Youthful Talent and Directorial Flair
Though his Scottish accent seems somewhat out of place in this setting, his subtle performance and comic timing are so skillful it’s no surprise he was chosen for a leading part in a future show. Director John McPhail maintains a lighthearted humorous vibe and stays unobtrusive with what is destined to be suitable evening family fun during a particular time of year.