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

This upbeat UK family movie boasts five different writers credited for the screenplay, including two who contributed “extra content”. This might clarify why the story beats unfold with such metronomic precision, while the personalities seem as though they were cultivated hydroponically in a lab. Paradoxically, the backdrop is a homestead farm where farm-owner Dinah, an agronomist chooses organic methods after being inspired by her magical niece Charlie, who feels 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 bond with one another across a few seasons – which aligns with the duration needed to cultivate a pumpkin for the annual village competition. Charlie aims to use the prize money to locate her mom, rumored to have run off to 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 eventually appears played by a familiar face, similar to Rosheuvel, comes from in popular series. Additionally, the cast includes an eccentric gardener portrayed by Nick Frost, who offers pumpkin-growing tips for the duo. Meanwhile, Tim McInnerny and Jane Horrocks play the Smythe-Gherkins, the evil local elites determined to win the competition for glory alone as they lack need for the cash prize.

  • Nick Frost excels in the role of a bohemian gardener.
  • The antagonists bring humorous conflict as affluent competitors.
  • The youthful Dominic McLaughlin stars as Charlie’s pal Oliver.

Young Actor's Skill and Directorial Flair

Though his Scottish accent appears a bit random in this context, his subtle performance and comic timing are so skillful it’s expected he was chosen for a leading part in a future show. Director John McPhail maintains a buoyant comedy tone and doesn’t interfere with what is destined to be suitable evening family fun for a specific seasonal period.

Grow debuts on Sky Cinema from 10 October. It is now available in Australian cinemas, and will be released in cinemas in the UK and US from October 17.

Jack Sanchez
Jack Sanchez

A tech enthusiast and software developer with a passion for AI and digital transformation, sharing practical insights.