In a year brimming with stellar international film contenders, Thailand has emerged as a formidable force with its deeply moving submission, “How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies.” The unassuming family drama has struck a chord with audiences worldwide, leaving a trail of tears and tissues in its wake as it tugs at the heartstrings with its poignant exploration of the transformative power of familial bonds.
A Cynical Dropout’s Sentimental Journey
At the heart of this crowd-pleasing tearjerker is the story of M, a jaded twenty-something university dropout portrayed by breakout star Putthipong Assaratanakul. Driven by the prospect of securing his inheritance, M moves in with his ailing grandmother, played by 78-year-old first-time actress Usha Seamkhum in a star-making turn that has garnered widespread acclaim.
As M navigates the complexities of his extended family’s venal desires and competes for his grandmother’s savings, an unexpected transformation takes place. The genuine affection blossoming between the unlikely duo becomes a beacon of light, illuminating the true value of their bond amidst the clamor for material gain.
Tears and Tissues: A Global Phenomenon
“How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies” has not only captivated the hearts of moviegoers but has spawned a viral trend that encapsulates its emotional impact. Audience members have taken to social media to share footage of themselves overcome with emotion after watching the film, a testament to its universal resonance. The phenomenon has even prompted cinema chains to provide complementary tissue packs alongside tickets, acknowledging the film’s propensity to elicit an outpouring of tears.
Audiences across cultures are connecting with the film’s portrayal of intergenerational love triumphing over greed.
The film’s success extends beyond its ability to move audiences to tears. It has achieved remarkable box office numbers throughout Asia, solidifying its position as a breakout hit. The universal themes of family, love, and the reevaluation of priorities have struck a chord with viewers, transcending cultural boundaries and affirming the power of cinema to unite and inspire.
Oscars Bound: Thailand’s Hopeful Contender
As “How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies” continues to captivate audiences worldwide, it has also caught the attention of the Academy Awards. The film’s selection as Thailand’s official submission for the Best International Feature Film category has placed it in a competitive field, vying for the coveted golden statuette. Having already secured a spot on the shortlist, the film’s chances of clinching a nomination and potentially the win are bolstered by its undeniable emotional resonance and the groundswell of support it has garnered.
The journey of “How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies” from a local Thai production to a global phenomenon is a testament to the universality of its themes and the power of storytelling to bridge divides. As the film continues its march towards the Oscars, it serves as a reminder that the most profound cinematic experiences often stem from the simplest and most relatable of human experiences—the bonds that define us and the love that transforms us.
With its deft blend of humor, heart, and unapologetic sentimentality, “How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies” has positioned itself as a strong contender in the international film arena. As audiences around the world embrace the film’s message and share in its emotional catharsis, Thailand’s cinematic gem stands poised to make its mark on the global stage, one tear-filled tissue at a time.
