Film Analysis: Grow – A Polished Gourd Cultivation Adventure Filled with Lively Appeal and Comedic Talent
This lively UK family movie boasts a team of five scribes credited with the script, including two who contributed “extra content”. This might clarify why the narrative rhythm progress with such metronomic precision, while the personalities feel as if they were cultivated hydroponically in a lab. Ironically, the setting is a family-run farm where farm-owner Dinah, an agronomist decides to go organic motivated by her gifted niece Charlie, who can sense the feelings of plants through touch.
A Growing Bond and a Prize Pumpkin
Recently introduced, for reasons 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 aims to utilize the award cash to find her mother, said to have left for become a movie star in the US.
The supporting cast is packed with charming comic performances from seasoned UK performers.
Star-Studded Appearances and Villainous Rivals
The maternal figure later emerges portrayed by a familiar face, similar to Rosheuvel, comes from in popular series. Additionally, the cast includes a quirky horticulturist played by Nick Frost, who offers advice on growing pumpkins for the duo. Meanwhile, Tim McInnerny and Jane Horrocks play the Smythe-Gherkins, the villainous upper-class neighbors determined to win the contest purely for prestige as they lack need for the cash prize.
- Nick Frost excels in the role of a bohemian gardener.
- The foes bring humorous conflict as wealthy rivals.
- The youthful Dominic McLaughlin stars as Charlie’s pal Oliver.
Youthful Talent and Filmmaking Style
Though his Scottish accent seems somewhat out of place in this setting, his subtle performance and comic timing are so skillful it’s no surprise he was chosen for a major role in a future show. Director John McPhail keeps a lighthearted humorous vibe and stays unobtrusive with what is meant to serve as pre-bedtime entertainment during a particular time of year.
