‘How To Make Millions Before Grandma Dies’ Netflix Movie Review - A Wholesome Thai Gem with a Hint of Flaw

Pat Boonnitipat’s How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies is an emotionally charged tale that pairs humor with heartfelt family dynamics. Set against the backdrop of a modern Thai family, it offers an intimate peek into intergenerational relationships, blending universal themes of love, regret, and redemption. The film's premise may seem predictable on paper—a grandson with questionable intentions ends up transformed by the very person he sought to exploit—but its execution makes it stand out.

Billkin Putthipong Assaratanakul, known for his earlier TV successes, shines in the role of M. He carries the character's evolution—from a self-serving individual to a caring family member—with a convincing charm that hooks you. Opposite him is Taew Usa Semkhum as Amah, making a debut performance so genuine it feels like she’s lived the story herself. Their chemistry is the emotional backbone of the film, and watching their bond evolve is nothing short of delightful.

The movie begins with M’s decision to quit his city job and move in with Amah, his grandmother, under the pretense of helping her through her battle with cancer. Initially, his motives are clear: he’s eyeing her wealth. Amah, however, is far from naïve. What follows is a series of interactions—sometimes awkward, often touching—that gradually shift the dynamic between them. Boonnitipat’s direction ensures these moments never feel overly sentimental. The humor, often rooted in cultural nuances, keeps the tone light enough to prevent the narrative from becoming too heavy.

One of the film’s strongest aspects is its pacing. At just under two hours, it doesn’t overstay its welcome. The screenplay is tight, focusing on the essential moments that drive the story forward. Whether it’s a cooking lesson gone hilariously wrong or a quiet conversation about life’s regrets, every scene serves a purpose. That said, there are a few moments that feel slightly contrived—emotional cues that are a tad too obvious or a subplot that wraps up too neatly. These minor stumbles, however, do little to detract from the overall experience.

Visually, How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies is a treat. The cinematography captures both the warmth of the family home and the vibrant energy of Thai life. It’s not flashy, but it doesn’t need to be. The subtle use of color and framing draws you into the characters’ world, making even the simplest settings feel rich and alive. The score, while effective in supporting the emotional beats, occasionally leans a bit too heavily on melodrama. A few quieter moments might have benefited from less orchestration, allowing the actors’ performances to take center stage.

What elevates the film is its authenticity. It doesn’t shy away from the messiness of family relationships. Amah is not a saint; she’s opinionated and stubborn, traits that often clash with M’s youthful arrogance. Yet, these imperfections make their relationship relatable. The supporting cast, including the quirky extended family and nosy neighbors, adds depth without stealing focus from the central duo.

The film’s humor is worth noting, as it balances the heavier themes with ease. Amah’s blunt remarks and M’s awkward attempts to please her provide plenty of laughs. Yet, the humor never feels out of place. It’s woven seamlessly into the narrative, enhancing the story rather than distracting from it.

If there’s one area where the film falters, it’s in its resolution. Without spoiling too much, the ending feels a bit too polished, as if the filmmakers were hesitant to leave any loose ends. While satisfying, it lacks the complexity and nuance of the journey leading up to it. A slightly more ambiguous conclusion might have left a stronger impact, inviting viewers to reflect on the story’s themes rather than wrapping everything up in a neat bow.

Despite this, How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies is a film with heart. It’s the kind of story that sneaks up on you, its simplicity masking the depth of its emotions. The title might suggest a quirky comedy, but the film is much more than that. It’s a celebration of family—the good, the bad, and everything in between.

Ultimately, the movie succeeds because it understands its audience. It’s not trying to reinvent the wheel, nor does it need to. Its strength lies in its sincerity and the universal resonance of its themes. Whether you’ve experienced a similar family dynamic or not, the film invites you to see yourself in its characters, to laugh and cry with them, and to leave the theater feeling a little warmer inside.

For fans of heartfelt dramas with a comedic twist, How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies is well worth your time. It may not be groundbreaking, but it’s a beautifully told story that reminds us of the value of family and the moments we often take for granted. While it could have pushed its boundaries a bit further in some areas, its charm and sincerity more than makeup for it. Amah and M’s journey is one you won’t soon forget, and that’s what makes this film special.

Final Score- [9/10]
Reviewed by - Anjali Sharma
Follow @AnjaliS54769166 on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times