Film Analysis: Grow – A Polished Pumpkin Growing Caper Brimming with Lively Appeal and Humor Expertise
This upbeat UK family movie features five different writers credited with the script, including two who provided “additional material”. This might clarify why the story beats unfold with clockwork accuracy, while the personalities seem as though they were cultivated in a controlled environment. Ironically, the setting is a family-run farm where agronomist-owner Dinah decides to go organic after being inspired by her gifted niece Charlie, who feels plants’ emotions by touching them.
A Growing Bond and a Contest-Winning Gourd
Having only recently met, for motives the otherwise sleek screenplay fails to explain, Dinah and Charlie bond with one another over several seasons – which aligns with the time required to grow a pumpkin for the local yearly contest. Charlie hopes to utilize the award cash to find her mother, said to have run off to become a movie star in California.
The supporting cast is filled with delightful humorous roles from seasoned UK performers.
Star-Studded Appearances and Villainous Rivals
The mother character later emerges played by a familiar face, similar to Rosheuvel, has a background in popular series. Moreover, the lineup features a quirky horticulturist portrayed by Nick Frost, who offers pumpkin-growing tips to Dinah and Charlie. Meanwhile, Jane Horrocks and Tim McInnerny depict the Smythe-Gherkins, the evil local elites set on winning the competition for glory alone as they lack need for the cash prize.
- Nick Frost excels in the role of a bohemian gardener.
- The antagonists add comedic tension as affluent competitors.
- Young Dominic McLaughlin plays Charlie’s school friend Oliver.
Youthful Talent and Filmmaking Style
Though his Scottish accent appears a bit random in this setting, his subtle performance and humor sense are so skillful it’s no surprise he has been cast for a leading part in an upcoming series. Director John McPhail maintains a lighthearted humorous vibe and doesn’t interfere with what is destined to be suitable pre-bedtime entertainment during a particular time of year.