Film Analysis: Grow – A Refined Pumpkin Growing Caper Filled with Perky Charm and Comedic Talent
This lively British children's film features five different writers credited with the script, with a pair who contributed “additional material”. This could explain why the narrative rhythm unfold with clockwork accuracy, while the personalities feel as if they were developed hydroponically in a lab. Paradoxically, the backdrop is a homestead farm where farm-owner Dinah, an agronomist decides to go organic motivated by her magical niece Charlie, who can sense the feelings of plants through touch.
A Growing Bond and a Prize Pumpkin
Recently introduced, for reasons the otherwise sleek screenplay doesn't clarify, Dinah and Charlie 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 use the prize money to find her mother, rumored to have left for pursue stardom in the US.
The supporting cast is packed with delightful humorous roles by veteran British actors.
Star-Studded Appearances and Antagonistic Foes
The mother character eventually appears portrayed by a well-known actress, similar to Rosheuvel, has a background in hit shows. Moreover, the cast includes an eccentric gardener portrayed by Nick Frost, who provides pumpkin-growing tips to Dinah and Charlie. At the same time, Jane Horrocks and Tim McInnerny play the Smythe-Gherkins, the evil local elites set on winning the contest purely for prestige since they don’t need the monetary reward.
- Nick Frost shines in the role of a bohemian gardener.
- The antagonists add comedic tension as wealthy rivals.
- The youthful Dominic McLaughlin stars as Charlie’s pal Oliver.
Youthful Talent and Filmmaking Style
Though his Scottish accent appears a bit random in this setting, his subtle performance and comic timing are so skillful it’s expected he was chosen for a leading part in an upcoming series. Director John McPhail keeps a buoyant comedy tone and stays unobtrusive with what is destined to serve as evening family fun for a specific seasonal period.