Film Analysis: Grow – A Refined Gourd Cultivation Adventure Brimming with Perky Charm and Comedic Talent
This lively UK family movie boasts five different writers credited with the script, including two who contributed “additional material”. This could explain why the story beats progress with such metronomic precision, while the personalities seem as though they were developed hydroponically in a lab. Ironically, the setting is a homestead farm where agronomist-owner Dinah chooses organic methods after being inspired by her gifted niece Charlie, who feels plants’ emotions through touch.
A Budding Relationship and a Prize Pumpkin
Having only recently met, for reasons the otherwise sleek screenplay fails to explain, Dinah and Charlie bond with one another 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 ensemble cast is packed with delightful humorous roles from seasoned UK performers.
Notable Cameos and Antagonistic Foes
The maternal figure eventually appears played by a well-known actress, similar to Rosheuvel, comes from in hit shows. Additionally, the lineup features a quirky horticulturist portrayed by Nick Frost, who offers 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 contest for glory alone since they don’t need the cash prize.
- Nick Frost excels in the role of a bohemian gardener.
- The foes bring humorous conflict as affluent competitors.
- 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 humor sense are so adept it’s no surprise he has been cast for a leading part in an upcoming series. Filmmaker John McPhail maintains a buoyant comedy tone and stays unobtrusive with what is meant to serve as evening family fun during a particular time of year.
