Film Analysis: Grow – A Polished Gourd Cultivation Adventure Filled with Perky Charm and Comedic Talent
This lively UK family movie boasts a team of five scribes listed for the screenplay, with a pair who provided “additional material”. This could explain why the story beats progress with clockwork accuracy, while the personalities feel as if they were developed hydroponically in a lab. Ironically, the setting is a family-run farm where agronomist-owner Dinah chooses organic methods after being inspired by her gifted niece Charlie, who feels plants’ emotions by touching them.
A Budding Relationship and a Contest-Winning Gourd
Having only recently met, for reasons the otherwise sleek screenplay doesn't clarify, Dinah and Charlie get to know each other across a few seasons – which aligns with the duration needed to grow a pumpkin for the annual village competition. Charlie hopes to use the prize money to locate her mom, said to have run off to become a movie star in California.
The supporting cast is packed with delightful humorous roles from seasoned UK performers.
Star-Studded Appearances and Villainous Rivals
The maternal figure later emerges portrayed by a familiar face, similar to Rosheuvel, comes from in popular series. Additionally, the lineup features a quirky horticulturist portrayed by Nick Frost, who provides pumpkin-growing tips to Dinah and Charlie. At the same time, Tim McInnerny and Jane Horrocks play the Smythe-Gherkins, the villainous upper-class neighbors set on winning the competition purely for prestige since they don’t need the cash prize.
- Nick Frost shines in the role of a bohemian gardener.
- The antagonists bring humorous conflict as wealthy rivals.
- Young Dominic McLaughlin plays Charlie’s school friend Oliver.
Young Actor's Skill and Directorial Flair
While his Scottish tone appears a bit random in this context, his subtle performance and humor sense are so adept it’s expected he was chosen for a leading part in a future show. Filmmaker 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.