Prepare for some pumpkin-sized laughs and heartwarming moments as the new Sky Original family film 'Grow' makes its way to screens this October, starring Nick Frost and Golda Rosheuvel, promising a fresh take on seasonal fun!
TL;DR- "Grow," a new Sky Original family film, makes its debut on Sky Cinema October 10th, followed by a nationwide theatrical release October 25th.
- Starring Golda Rosheuvel as a stoic farmer and Priya-Rose Brookwell as her magical niece, alongside Nick Frost, it's a charming tale about family, giant pumpkins, and community.
- Perfect for the autumn half-term, this PG-rated comedy offers feel-good seasonal entertainment, moving away from typical horror fare.
Forget scary clowns and haunted houses for a moment, because this autumn, there’s a new kind of seasonal delight sprouting up on our screens! Get ready to snuggle in with your loved ones for "Grow," a Sky Original film that’s all about enormous pumpkins, heartwarming family bonds, and a whole lot of charming British comedy. If you’ve been looking for that perfect, cozy movie night experience that steers clear of anything spooky, "Grow" might just be your new favorite autumn tradition.
This delightful family heartwarmer brings together a fantastic cast, including the ever-charming Nick Frost and the wonderfully talented Golda Rosheuvel, known for her regal role in Bridgerton. But don’t expect any balls or elaborate gowns here; instead, we’re heading to a quaint village obsessed with the glorious gourd – the pumpkin!
A Heartwarming Tale of Unlikely Family Bonds and Giant Gourds
At its core, "Grow" tells the story of Dinah Little, played by Golda Rosheuvel. Dinah is an agronomist and farmer, a tough cookie with a gruff exterior and not much patience for nonsense. Her world gets a major shake-up when her young, estranged niece, Charlie (the adorable Priya-Rose Brookwell), comes to live with her. Charlie isn't your average kid; she possesses a truly magical gift for connecting with plants, sensing their emotions just by touch. It’s a talent that subtly hints at her own longing for nurturing and acceptance in her new, unfamiliar home.
As they navigate their new relationship, Charlie discovers the town’s annual pumpkin-growing contest. For her, it’s more than just a competition; it’s a chance to use her unique abilities and perhaps even win prize money that she hopes will help her find her mother, who’s rumored to have run off to California to become a movie star. This sweet motivation adds a layer of tender ambition to the otherwise whimsical plot.
Inspired by Charlie's organic plant whisperer skills, Dinah decides to go organic on her farm, setting the stage for their big entry into the competition. Together, with a pumpkin affectionately named Peter, they embark on a journey that’s filled with eccentric townsfolk, hilariously sneaky rival growers, and even some bizarre pumpkin-growing technology. Their biggest adversaries? The dastardly Smythe-Gherkins, played with scene-stealing relish by Jane Horrocks and Tim McInnerny, who are determined to win for glory alone, since they certainly don’t need the money!
This quest to grow a record-breaking pumpkin becomes a beautiful metaphor for Charlie’s own personal growth and the blossoming bond between her and Dinah. It's a journey that transforms them from hesitant strangers into a true family, reminding us all about the power of love, persistence, and the magic that can be found in nature and within ourselves.
Meet the All-Star British Cast Bringing the Charm to the Farm
One of the true delights of "Grow" is its stacked ensemble cast, a who’s-who of beloved British comedic talent and rising stars. Leading the charge, of course, are Golda Rosheuvel as Dinah and Priya-Rose Brookwell as Charlie, whose evolving chemistry forms the heart of the film. Their dynamic is the central pillar, portraying how an unlikely connection can blossom into a strong, loving family unit.
Then there's Nick Frost, stepping into the role of Arlo, the hippy horticulturist and eccentric neighbor who offers invaluable (and often quirky) pumpkin-growing advice to Dinah and Charlie. Frost’s signature dry wit and warmth are sure to bring plenty of laughs and a comforting presence to the film. Joining him in the comedic stakes are Jane Horrocks and Tim McInnerny, perfectly cast as the villainous, aristocratic Smythe-Gherkins. Their over-the-top antics and determination to win at any cost provide much of the film’s slapstick chaos and lighthearted antagonism.
The supporting cast is equally impressive and well-chosen. You’ll spot another Bridgerton alumnus, Kathryn Drysdale, playing Charlie’s mother, Polly Little. Drysdale is known for her versatile performances, including a fantastic Meghan Markle impersonation in "The Windsors," so expect a memorable turn. Young Dominic McLaughlin, who plays Charlie’s school friend Oliver Gregory, already showcases remarkable skill with his dry underplaying and comedic timing. It's no wonder he's already been cast in the highly anticipated Harry Potter TV show!
Rounding out this talented lineup are Jeremy Swift as Mr. Gregory, the inimitable Alan Carr as the Emcee, Joe Wilkinson as Boris Mudd, Fisayo Akinade as Kevin, and Sharon Rooney as Sharon. This stellar cast ensures that every scene is packed with character and charm, making the world of "Grow" feel rich and genuinely funny. It’s clear this film is stuffed like a well-hydrated gourd with comedic prowess, promising a thoroughly entertaining experience.
The Creative Crew Cultivating This Feel-Good Story
Bringing this wonderfully whimsical world to life is director John McPhail, who keeps the comedy buoyant and ensures the film hits all the right heartwarming notes without getting bogged down. The story itself was conceived by Nick Guthe, with the screenplay crafted by a team of talented writers: Nick Guthe, Christos N. Gage, Ruth Fletcher Gage, Mark Huckerby, and Nick Ostler. Their combined efforts have created a narrative that, while familiar in its structure, delivers sincerity and a joyful experience.
The film is a Sky Original, produced by Double Nickel Entertainment and Blazing Griffin, with significant support from Screen Scotland, among other partners. The decision to shoot "Grow" on location across multiple picturesque spots in Scotland, including Edinburgh, Dalkeith, Culross, Rosyth, and Gorebridge, adds an authentic and charming backdrop to the tale. The scenic Scottish landscapes truly enhance the film’s cozy, autumnal atmosphere, making you feel right at home in the "Pumpkin Capital of the World."
"Halloween movies have become synonymous with slasher and horror, but we saw a huge opportunity to offer families something different. Grow is a film everyone can enjoy together. The kids will laugh, parents will connect with its heart, and even grandparents will recognize themselves in its themes of tradition and belonging. It’s rare to find a movie that truly bridges generations, and we’re thrilled to bring that experience to audiences this autumn."
– Adam Richman and Jenette Kahn, Co-Founders of Double Nickel EntertainmentWhen and Where You Can Catch All the Pumpkin Fun
Sky and its partners have cooked up a fantastic release strategy for "Grow," designed to get this delightful film into as many hands (and eyeballs!) as possible. The movie kicked off its journey with a premiere at the prestigious Edinburgh International Film Festival on August 16, 2025, and also made appearances at the Montreal International Film Festival and Canada International Children's Film Festival, generating early buzz.
The official London premiere, a star-studded affair, took place on October 5, 2025, at the May Fair Hotel, with many of the cast and filmmakers in attendance to celebrate. This event marked the beginning of a month-long rollout carefully timed to coincide with the UK's autumn half-term and Halloween season, making it the perfect family entertainment choice.
So, mark your calendars! "Grow" will debut as a Sky Original on Sky Cinema from October 10, 2025. This means you can comfortably watch it from the cozy confines of your own home, perfect for those crisp autumn evenings. But if you prefer the big screen experience, you're in luck! There will also be a nationwide theatrical rollout with CinemaLive, starting from October 25, 2025. This hybrid release model ensures that whether you’re planning a family outing to the cinema or a relaxed movie night at home, "Grow" is easily accessible.
The filmmakers behind "Grow" intentionally wanted to offer something different from the usual spooky season fare. As Adam Richman and Jenette Kahn from Double Nickel Entertainment shared, they saw a "huge opportunity to offer families something different" during a time when Halloween movies are so often linked with horror. They hope "Grow" will be a film "everyone can enjoy together," bridging generations with its themes of tradition and belonging.
Naysun Alae-Carew, MD and Executive Producer at Blazing Griffin, echoed this sentiment, expressing their joy in bringing a "positive, hopeful film for families" to the screen. Their hope is that "Grow" becomes the kind of film families look forward to watching together every autumn, year after year.
What Reviewers Are Saying About This Cozy Autumn Watch
The early buzz around "Grow" is overwhelmingly positive, painting a picture of a film that delivers exactly what it promises: a big, goofy, pumpkin-sized slice of family fun. Reviewers have lauded it as a "polished pumpkin growing caper stuffed with perky charm and comedy talent," a true "family heartwarmer" that serves as "perfectly serviceable seasonal fare." It’s been described as an "exuberant, warmhearted tale about giant pumpkins, eccentric townsfolk, and the kind of unlikely family bond that blossoms when people open themselves up to love."
Critics appreciate its intentional design as a feel-good, family-friendly adventure, succeeding in delivering the kind of cozy, laughter-filled, seasonal story it sets out to tell. Comparisons to "Paddington" and a "Hallmark holiday special" highlight its colorful, cozy aesthetic, sprinkled with just enough magical realism to charm kids without delving into full fantasy. It’s heartfelt family humor with a universally positive message that champions love, persistence, and community over material prizes.
While some reviewers noted that the plot might be predictable, the villains a tad one-dimensional, and the life lessons familiar – criticisms that are often leveled at family films – these points are generally presented as almost beside the point. "Grow" doesn’t aspire to be high art, nor does it need to. Its goal is to be a delightful, cozy seasonal story perfect for a family movie night, and it unequivocally hits that mark. It's "warm, joyous, and cozy," "cute, charming, and completely inoffensive," a film that might be "disposable in the long run, but it certainly is delightful in the moment." So, if you're in the mood for pure, unadulterated, wholesome autumn enjoyment, "Grow" is calling your name.
Conclusion: Your Next Family Movie Night is Sorted!
As the leaves begin to turn and the air gets crisp, "Grow" is shaping up to be the perfect cinematic treat for families this autumn. With its blend of charming performances, a heartwarming story, and a dash of whimsical pumpkin-growing magic, it’s a refreshing alternative to the typical spooky season offerings. Whether you gather around the TV for its Sky Cinema debut or head to a local theater for the big-screen experience, "Grow" promises a joyful, feel-good escape that celebrates family, community, and the simple pleasures of the season. Don't miss out on this delightful British gem!
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