Grow Review – A Refined Gourd Cultivation Adventure Filled with Perky Charm and Comedic Talent

This upbeat UK family movie features five different writers listed for the screenplay, with a pair who contributed “additional material”. This might clarify why the story beats progress with clockwork accuracy, while the personalities seem as though they were cultivated in a controlled environment. Paradoxically, the backdrop is a family-run farm where agronomist-owner Dinah decides to go organic after being inspired by her magical niece Charlie, who can sense plants’ emotions through touch.

A Growing Bond and a Prize Pumpkin

Recently introduced, for motives the otherwise sleek screenplay doesn't clarify, Charlie and Dinah get to know each other over several seasons – which aligns with the time required to grow a pumpkin for the local yearly contest. Charlie hopes to use the prize money to locate her mom, said to have left for become a movie star in California.

The supporting cast is filled with charming comic performances from seasoned UK performers.

Star-Studded Appearances and Villainous Rivals

The maternal figure later emerges played by a well-known actress, who, like Rosheuvel, has a background in hit shows. Moreover, the cast includes a quirky horticulturist portrayed by Nick Frost, who provides advice on growing pumpkins for the duo. At the same time, Tim McInnerny and Jane Horrocks play the Smythe-Gherkins, the villainous upper-class neighbors set on winning the competition purely for prestige since they don’t need the monetary reward.

• Nick Frost shines as a hippy horticulturist.
• The foes bring humorous conflict as affluent competitors.
• Young Dominic McLaughlin plays Charlie’s school friend Oliver.

Young Actor's Skill and Directorial Flair

While his Scottish tone seems somewhat out of place in this context, his subtle performance and comic timing are so adept it’s no surprise he was chosen for a leading part in an upcoming series. Filmmaker John McPhail keeps a buoyant comedy tone and stays unobtrusive with what is meant to serve as evening family fun for a specific seasonal period.