Film Analysis: Grow – A Polished Pumpkin Growing Caper Brimming with Perky Charm and Humor Expertise
This upbeat British children's film features a team of five scribes credited with the script, including two who provided “extra content”. This could explain why the narrative rhythm unfold with such metronomic precision, while the personalities seem as though they were cultivated hydroponically in a lab. Ironically, the backdrop is a homestead 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 doesn't clarify, Dinah and Charlie bond with one another over several seasons – which coincides with the time required to cultivate a pumpkin for the annual village competition. Charlie hopes to utilize the award cash to find her mother, rumored to have left for become a movie star in the US.
The ensemble cast is filled with delightful humorous roles from seasoned UK performers.
Star-Studded Appearances and Villainous Rivals
The mother character eventually appears played by a well-known actress, similar to Rosheuvel, has a background in popular series. Additionally, the cast includes a quirky horticulturist played by Nick Frost, who provides advice on growing pumpkins for the duo. Meanwhile, Tim McInnerny and Jane Horrocks play the Smythe-Gherkins, the evil local elites set on winning the competition purely for prestige as they lack need for the monetary reward.
- Nick Frost shines as a hippy horticulturist.
- The foes add comedic tension as affluent competitors.
- The youthful Dominic McLaughlin plays Charlie’s school friend Oliver.
Young Actor's Skill and Filmmaking Style
While his Scottish tone appears a bit random in this setting, his subtle performance and humor sense are so adept it’s no surprise he was chosen for a leading part in an upcoming series. Director John McPhail keeps a buoyant comedy tone and doesn’t interfere with what is meant to serve as pre-bedtime entertainment for a specific seasonal period.
