New Harry Potter Stars' Upcoming Fantasy Film Is Coming to the U.S. With a Spooky Release Date

Before they head to Hogwarts, two of the new Harry Potter stars are teaming up for something a little more down-to-earth — and full of pumpkins. Fathom Entertainment has acquired the U.S. theatrical rights to Grow, a whimsical family fantasy starring Nick Frost and Dominic McLaughlin, with the film officially set to premiere nationwide on October 3.

That release date makes it one of the rare family-friendly movies positioned against the usual slate of October horror films, and might end up being a very canny bit of counterprogramming for two reasons — the family friendly tone, and the massively curious Potter fandom. As Fathom CEO Ray Nutt put it, Grow is “an uplifting and heartwarming family film for movie lovers of all ages that American audiences are sure to embrace. A pure, joyous comedy – with just a little bit of spice.”

What Is ‘Grow’ About?

Directed by John McPhail (Anna and the Apocalypse), the film follows Charlie, a restless young girl sent to live with her tough-as-nails Aunt Dinah (played by Golda Rosheuvel, Bridgerton). Charlie throws herself into the town’s fiercely competitive pumpkin-growing contest, discovering not only a knack for nurturing plants but also a bond with her aunt and the eccentric locals. The story promises community spirit, quirky rivals, and of course, one very oversized pumpkin.

Joining Rosheuvel are Priya-Rose Brookwell (The Lazarus Project) as Charlie, Frost as a colorful member of the pumpkin-obsessed community, and McLaughlin — who is set to debut as Harry Potter in HBO’s upcoming reboot — in one of his first big screen roles. The supporting cast is stacked with British talent, including Tim McInnerny (Notting Hill), Jane Horrocks (Absolutely Fabulous), Alan Carr, Joe Wilkinson, Kathryn Drysdale (Bridgerton), Fisayo Akinade (Heartstopper), Sharon Rooney (Barbie) and Jeremy Swift (Ted Lasso).

For Potter fans, the film is more than just a cozy fall adventure — it’s the first chance to see McLaughlin (the new Harry) and Frost (the new Hagrid) share the screen. Their dynamic will soon be at the heart of the Harry Potter television series, but here audiences can watch them in a lighter setting before the big franchise responsibilities arrive.

Grow just premiered at the Edinburgh Film Festival before its U.K. rollout on Sky Cinema, and U.S. audiences can grab tickets starting September 5. Between its feel-good story and spooky-season timing, it could be the perfect counterprogramming to slashers and jump scares this October.

Grow opens in theaters on October 3.