‘How To Make Millions Before Grandma Dies’ is a moving and heartwarming film that explores the evolving relationship between a grandson and his dying grandmother, whom he calls Amah (Thai for grandmother).
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photo: Grandma Dies
The movie captures a reality
in which ageing parents are left alone while their children pursue careers,
families, and dreams. The protagonist, M, grows from being a selfish grandson
into someone who learns to care for his Amah even after her passing.
This film takes audiences on
an emotional rollercoaster, evoking anger, joy, sadness, and comfort. It also
serves as a powerful mirror, reflecting the guilt and regret many children feel
as they get caught up in the rush of life, neglecting their loved ones.
Through Amah’s story, the
film reminds us of the joy and comfort our ageing loved ones find when we spend
time with them.
The movie is also about our
materialistic world. It critiques how people prioritise superficial desires,
like wealth, over the emotional bonds that matter. At the same time, it
highlights the rediscovery of humanity and empathy after being lost in the
pursuit of money.
The narrative begins and ends
in a crematory, a powerful visual metaphor for life’s fleeting nature and the
cyclical essence of relationships. In the opening scene, Amah, her younger son,
daughter, and M gather to pay respects to their ancestors. Here, Amah expresses
her wish to own a suitable plot of land for burial, a desire sparked by the
shared crematory they stand in. M, however, remains detached from the ritual,
engrossed in his phone as he plays games. Disappointed, Amah calls him Qi-Chou
(an insult suggesting carelessness or uselessness).
M dropped out of college to
pursue a career in gaming. His perspective changes when he learns that his
cousin Mui has inherited her grandfather’s wealth. Mui cared for her sick
grandfather, fulfilling a “high-paying, easy job”. He sees Mui’s comfortable
life after her grandfather’s passing.
When Amah is diagnosed with
stomach cancer, M sees an opportunity. Driven by greed, he begins caring for
her. For the first time, he does things he never imagined doing making tea for
the goddess Amah worships, cleaning her home, tending to her plants, and buying
her favourite foods.
He even sells his beloved
gaming PC to buy Amah items such as a surveillance camera.
However, as M spends more
time with Amah, a shift begins. What starts as a calculated plan to win her
favour slowly turns into something genuine. M starts to understand Amah’s struggles,
sacrifices, and resilience.
He learns about her simple
joys like running her congee shop at dawn. M’s initial pretence of care
gradually fades as he enjoys his time with Amah and cherishes their
relationship.
The story also highlights
Amah’s challenges. Despite her illness, she continues to support her youngest
son, who constantly asks for money and even steals from her. M’s anger toward
his uncle reflects his growing empathy for Amah.
A turning point occurs when
Amah discovers M’s plan to sell her house. Though hurt, she does not confront
him directly. Instead, she encourages him to focus on building a career and
assures him she can care for herself. Her quiet dignity and unwavering love for
M add emotional depth to her character.
As Amah’s condition worsens,
she is hospitalised. It is revealed that she left the house to her younger son,
a decision that enrages M. Feeling betrayed, he returns home. However, when the
younger son sells the house and places Amah in a nursing home, M has a moment of
reckoning.
Overcoming his anger, he
brings Amah to his home and cares for her—this time with no ulterior motives,
only love.
After Amah’s passing, M
learns of a bank account she had been saving for him since his childhood.
Though he once cared for her with selfish intent, the money no longer holds the
same value for him. Instead, M uses it to fulfil Amah’s final wish: securing a
beautiful burial plot.
The film comes full circle,
ending at the crematory where the family gathers once again, but everything has
changed. Amah is gone, M is now a responsible young man, and the family
members, who once seemed disconnected, come together to honour her memory.
The movie reflects a
universal truth that resonates deeply with audiences—the importance of being
present for our loved ones while we still can.
M’s growth from a selfish
grandson into someone caring for his Amah is heartwarming. It reminds us that
while our initial intentions may not always be pure, simply showing up and
being there for someone can mean the world to them. Amah’s joy in M’s
presence—even when he was acting out of greed—shows how much our ageing loved
ones value our love.
The film’s cinematography,
visuals, and sound design deserve special mention. The soothing background
score complements the emotional highs and lows. The aesthetics, from the small
congee shop to the creaky old house, add to the film’s charm and authenticity,
making it visually appealing and emotionally impactful.
‘How to Make Millions Before
Grandma Dies’ is more than just a film—it’s a gentle yet powerful reminder of
the value of family, love, and presence. It encourages us to pause amidst our
busy lives and reconnect with those who once gave us everything. Through M’s
transformation, the film conveys that personal growth often comes from
unexpected relationships.
While the story begins with
greed, it ends with love, redemption, and fulfilling Amah’s final wish. The
movie stays with you long after the credits roll, leaving you with teary eyes
and a renewed sense of responsibility and appreciation for the people who matter
most.
How To Make Millions Before
Grandma Dies
Director: Pat Boonnitipat
Starring: Putthipong
Assarantanakul, Usha Seamkhum, Sanya Kunakorn
Duration: 125 minutes
Language: Thai
Available: Netflix, Apple TV
Year: 2024
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