Grow Review – A Refined Gourd Cultivation Adventure Brimming with Lively Appeal and Comedic Talent
This upbeat British children's film boasts five different writers listed with the script, with a pair who contributed “extra content”. This might clarify why the narrative rhythm progress with such metronomic precision, and the characters feel as if they were cultivated hydroponically in a lab. Ironically, the backdrop is a homestead farm where agronomist-owner Dinah chooses organic methods after being inspired by her magical niece Charlie, who can sense the feelings of plants through touch.
A Growing Bond and a Contest-Winning Gourd
Having only recently met, for motives the otherwise polished script fails to explain, Charlie and Dinah bond with one another over several seasons – which aligns with the duration needed to cultivate a pumpkin for the annual village competition. Charlie aims 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 charming comic performances by veteran British actors.
Star-Studded Appearances and Antagonistic Foes
The mother character later emerges played by a well-known actress, who, like Rosheuvel, comes from in hit shows. Additionally, the lineup features a quirky horticulturist played by Nick Frost, who provides pumpkin-growing tips for the duo. At the same time, Jane Horrocks and Tim McInnerny play the Smythe-Gherkins, the evil local elites set on winning the competition purely for prestige since they don’t need the cash prize.
- Nick Frost excels in the role of a bohemian gardener.
- The foes add comedic tension as wealthy rivals.
- Young Dominic McLaughlin stars as Charlie’s pal Oliver.
Young Actor's Skill and Directorial Flair
While his Scottish tone appears a bit random in this context, his subtle performance and comic timing are so adept it’s expected he was chosen for a major role in a future show. Filmmaker John McPhail maintains a lighthearted humorous vibe and doesn’t interfere with what is meant to be suitable pre-bedtime entertainment during a particular time of year.
