The highest-grossing Thai movie in the Philippines

"How To Make Millions Before Grandma Dies," a 2024 Thai drama film directed and co-written by Pat Boonnitipat, has become a cross-border sensation, gaining popularity not only in Thailand but also in the Philippines and across Southeast Asia.

Starring popular teen idol Putthipong "Billkin" Assaratanakul and seasoned actress Usha Seamkhum, the film tells the story of M, a university dropout struggling with financial instability and lack of direction. He volunteers to take care of his terminally ill grandmother, Amah, initially motivated by the hope of an inheritance. However, as he spends time with Amah, he discovers deeper values of family and life.

Released in Thailand on April 4, the film grossed an impressive 250 million baht within the first 14 days, making it the highest-grossing Thai film of the year. It quickly became the 11th highest-grossing Thai film of all time and the top-grossing film of production studio GDH.

The film's heartfelt narrative and powerful performances resonated deeply with audiences, gaining popularity through word of mouth. A viral trend emerged, with moviegoers posting videos and photos of their teary eyes on social media.

Following its success in Thailand, "How To Make Millions Before Grandma Dies" was released in Indonesia on May 15, where it also became a blockbuster. In Singapore, the film topped the box office over the June 6 to 9 weekend, with ticket sales amounting to $1.16 million, setting a new record for Thai films in the city-state.

The Philippines, known for its appreciation of dramatic storytelling and familial themes, also embraced the film wholeheartedly.

SM Cinemas announced on June 15 that it had become the highest-grossing Thai movie in the country.

Adam Putra, in a review on Letterboxd, a popular social network for film lovers, noted that this film requires not just the brain but the heart.

"Messages noted: every single moment is precious, cherish it and don't waste it. Life is too short to spend with anything other than your loved ones. Be with someone who loves you unconditionally and make delightful memories before it's too late. Love your grandma as you love your mother; she loves you as her own child," his review reads.

On IMDb, user ddmareo gave it a perfect 10, sharing how the film demonstrates that simplicity, when executed flawlessly, can lead to perfection.

"One of the movie's greatest strengths is its relatability. Even though the story is fictional, the characters, particularly within Asian families, feel incredibly true to life. Their dynamics, conflicts, and expressions of love and frustration resonate deeply, especially for those familiar with the nuances of Asian households. The actors deserve immense credit for breathing life into these characters. Their performances, from subtle facial expressions to the cadence of their everyday conversations, ground the film in a heartwarming authenticity," he shared.

"How To Make Millions Before Grandma Dies" not only entertains but also touches the hearts of audiences with its universal themes of love, family, and the pursuit of happiness. The film continues to captivate viewers in the Philippines exclusively in SM Cinemas.