🔗 Share this article

This lively British children's film features five different writers listed with the script, with a pair who provided “additional material”. This might clarify why the story beats unfold with clockwork accuracy, and the characters seem as though they were developed hydroponically in a lab. Paradoxically, the backdrop is a homestead farm where farm-owner Dinah, an agronomist decides to go organic after being inspired by her magical niece Charlie, who feels the feelings of plants through touch.

A Growing Bond and a Prize Pumpkin

Recently introduced, for motives the otherwise polished script fails to explain, Charlie and Dinah get to know each other across a few seasons – which aligns with the time required to cultivate a pumpkin for the local yearly contest. Charlie aims to utilize the award cash to locate her mom, said to have run off to pursue stardom in the US.

The supporting cast is filled with charming comic performances by veteran British actors.

Star-Studded Appearances and Villainous Rivals

The maternal figure later emerges portrayed by a familiar face, who, like 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. Meanwhile, Jane Horrocks and Tim McInnerny depict the Smythe-Gherkins, the villainous upper-class neighbors set on winning the competition purely for prestige since they don’t need the cash prize.

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

Youthful Talent and Filmmaking Style

While his Scottish tone seems somewhat out of place in this setting, his dry underplaying and comic timing are so adept it’s expected he was chosen for a leading part in an upcoming series. Filmmaker John McPhail maintains a buoyant comedy tone and doesn’t interfere with what is meant to be suitable pre-bedtime entertainment for a specific seasonal period.