M is often described by his Amah as useless. He dropped out of university to quickly earn money as a game caster, showing no effort in his life. He doesn’t understand the importance of honoring his family or maintaining traditions of care. When asked to scatter petals at the cemetery to honor their ancestors, he performs the task so poorly that Amah has to step in and finish it. When she injures herself in the process, he barely notices. Even when she is taken to the hospital, he chooses to go home and play on his computer. When his mother informs him that doctors found cancer in Amah’s digestive tract, he seems indifferent.
To M, his grandmother isn’t even worth considering as a nuisance. But when his paternal grandfather dies and leaves the house to his cousin Mui, who had been his primary caretaker, M devises a plan. He sells his gaming PC, packs his bags, and moves in with Amah, hoping to get close enough to her that she might favor him in her will and leave him her house. Confident in his plan’s success, he lists the house for sale even before inheriting it.
Writer-director Pat Boonnitipat’s How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies explores a familiar theme. The film’s trailer mentions it is “inspired by true stories found in every family.” From Akira Kurosawa’s Ikiru (1952) to Lulu Wang’s The Farewell (2019), family-centered dramas involving terminal illness and the elderly have been a staple of Asian cinema since the medium began capturing real-life stories.
Synopsis: How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies follows the story of an ambitious young protagonist who embarks on a fast-paced journey to achieve financial success before his beloved grandmother’s passing. The film blends humor, drama, and life lessons, providing a unique take on the pursuit of wealth and the value of family.
Plot: The central character, Alex, is a twenty-something entrepreneur with big dreams and little patience. Upon learning of his grandmother’s terminal illness, Alex sets a lofty goal: to make a million dollars before she passes away, ensuring she witnesses his success and he secures a prosperous future. His journey is filled with ups and downs, dubious schemes, ethical dilemmas, and heartfelt moments.
Characters:
- Alex (Protagonist): A determined yet naive young man whose desperation leads him down various unconventional paths to accumulate wealth.
- Grandma Ruth: Alex’s wise and loving grandmother, who provides grounding advice and perspective throughout the film.
- Supporting Cast: Friends, mentors, and business partners who each play a role in Alex’s rollercoaster journey.
Review: How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies is a refreshing blend of comedy and drama, capturing the essence of youthful ambition and the timeless wisdom of elders. The movie cleverly critiques modern get-rich-quick schemes while emphasizing the importance of integrity, family bonds, and genuine success.
Pros:
- Engaging Storyline: The plot keeps viewers hooked with its mix of humor, tension, and emotional depth.
- Strong Performances: The cast, particularly the actors playing Alex and Grandma Ruth, deliver compelling and heartfelt performances.
- Moral Undertones: The film imparts valuable lessons about the meaning of success and the importance of ethical decision-making.
Cons:
- Predictable Moments: Some plot twists can be seen coming, which might detract from the overall suspense.
- Character Development: A few supporting characters could benefit from deeper development to enhance their contribution to the story.
Conclusion: Overall, How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies is a thought-provoking and entertaining film that balances humor with heartfelt messages. It’s a reminder that the pursuit of wealth should not overshadow the significance of relationships and ethical values. The movie is a must-watch for those looking for a meaningful yet light-hearted cinematic experience.
