Film Analysis: Grow – A Polished Pumpkin Growing Caper Filled with Perky Charm and Comedic Talent
This upbeat UK family movie features a team of five scribes credited with the script, including two who provided “additional material”. This could explain why the narrative rhythm progress with such metronomic precision, while the personalities feel as if they were cultivated in a controlled environment. Paradoxically, the backdrop is a family-run farm where farm-owner Dinah, an agronomist chooses organic methods after being inspired by her magical niece Charlie, who feels plants’ emotions through touch.
A Budding Relationship and a Contest-Winning Gourd
Recently introduced, for motives the otherwise polished script doesn't clarify, Charlie and Dinah get to know each other over several seasons – which aligns with the time required to grow a pumpkin for the annual village competition. Charlie hopes to use the prize money to find her mother, rumored to have run off to pursue stardom in the US.
The ensemble cast is filled with delightful humorous roles by veteran British actors.
Star-Studded Appearances and Villainous Rivals
The mother character later emerges portrayed by a well-known actress, who, like Rosheuvel, has a background in hit shows. Additionally, the cast includes a quirky horticulturist portrayed by Nick Frost, who offers pumpkin-growing tips for the duo. At the same time, Jane Horrocks and Tim McInnerny depict the Smythe-Gherkins, the villainous upper-class neighbors determined to win the competition for glory alone since they don’t need the monetary reward.
- Nick Frost shines in the role of a bohemian gardener.
- The antagonists bring humorous conflict as wealthy rivals.
- The youthful Dominic McLaughlin plays Charlie’s school friend Oliver.
Youthful Talent and Filmmaking Style
While his Scottish tone appears a bit random in this context, his dry underplaying and comic timing are so skillful it’s no surprise he has been cast for a leading part in a future show. Director John McPhail keeps a buoyant comedy tone and stays unobtrusive with what is destined to be suitable evening family fun during a particular time of year.
