The title of this film might suggest it's a lighthearted comedy, but this Thai blockbuster offers so much more. When a grandson reluctantly cares for his ailing grandmother, their relationship transforms in unexpected ways. With humor, heart, and depth, it’s a film that will surprise and deeply move you.
Genre: comedy, drama
Language: Thai, subtitles: English
When Ahma is diagnosed with cancer, her grandson M decides to step up as her caretaker—or at least, that’s what he tells himself. Grandma’s modest house in Bangkok's Chinese Quarter might come with an inheritance, after all. So, M pulls himself away from his gaming addiction and moves in with her. Ahma isn’t fooled for a second, but she has her own reasons for letting him stick around. Their arrangement, however, turns into something much more meaningful than either expected and than what the title of the film hints at.
How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies—with a gentler Thai title that translates to "Grandma's Grandson"—is far more than its cheeky name suggests. It’s a film about the deep ties between family and the unique rhythms of life in the tight-knit community that Ahma calls home.
While the film, this year’s biggest Thai blockbuster, has frequently been labelled a "tearjerker," first-time director Pat Boonnitipat's debut is much more than that. Yes, it tugs at the heartstrings and will leave you with a lump in your throat, but it’s also a film full of wit, subtle humor, and a quiet wisdom that lingers long after the credits roll.
Reviews
“It is a sentimental journey to redemption but one that Boonnitipat grounds in understanding and empathy.“ Screen Daily
“’How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies’ is a sweet, sad and sentimental Thai end-of-life melodrama, titled and set-up like a greedy-family farce.” Movie Nation
“The dialogue is biting, crisp, smart, and frequently heartbreaking.” Film Threat
Ticket information
This film will be shown at Filmhuis De Zwarte Doos. Buying a ticket online in advance is mandatory if you want to attend this film. You can buy a ticket by clicking on the black “order” button on this page.
Please note: you can only buy a ticket online; tickets cannot be purchased with cash or bank card at the ticket counter.
For more general information about tickets, refund policies, etc., please click here.
Please be on time
The screening of the film starts at 19:30 sharp (no pre-film advertisements) and the cinema hall opens at 19:10. We kindly ask you to be at the ticket counter at least 10 minutes prior to the start of the film. This is to ensure the film starts and ends on time.
The Studium Generale film program is created in collaboration with the Student Film Committee and Natlab.