I just watched How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies, and wow, what a beautiful film. The story follows M, a selfish university dropout who decides to move in with his grandmother, Amah, hoping to inherit her house. What starts as a greedy scheme turns into a touching journey of self-discovery and genuine love. Watching their relationship evolve was so heartwarming, and by the end, I found myself in tears. It’s been a while since a movie got me this emotional.
What really stood out to me was how beautifully the film captured the little moments. The stillness in the blocking and staging made even the mundane feel meaningful, like watching M help Amah sell congee or giving her a sponge bath. These quiet moments spoke volumes about their growing bond, and I found myself completely absorbed in their world. The cinematography and warm tones made every frame feel intimate, almost like you were there with them.
The performances were another highlight. Usha Seamkhum, in her debut role as Amah, was absolutely phenomenal. She brought so much authenticity and depth to her character, making you laugh one minute and cry the next. Putthipong Assaratanakul as M was equally brilliant, especially in how he portrayed M’s growth from a self-centered slacker to a caring grandson. Together, they had a chemistry that felt so genuine, and it made their story even more impactful.
I have to give a special shoutout to the editing and score, too. The pacing was just right; never too slow, never rushed and the transitions were seamless, which kept me fully engaged. The score, with its gentle piano notes, added such an emotional layer to the scenes without feeling overdone. It’s the kind of music that lingers in your mind long after the movie is over, perfectly complementing the story’s heartfelt tone.
All film shots taken from TheMovieDB.org
Smash Hit Score: 9.4/10
How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies is a film that’s equal parts heartwarming and heartbreaking. It’s about family, the value of time, and how love can come from the most unexpected places. While there were a few small hiccups, like the subplot with Mui feeling a bit out of place, it didn’t take away from the overall experience. If you’re looking for a movie that will make you laugh, cry, and appreciate the relationships in your life, this one’s worth every second.