How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies (2024)
What a million brownie points will get you.
Presentation:
Can Thai cinema make a comeback? If you had told me Koreeda moved to Thailand and made this film I may have believed it. This is an emotional drama about a young man whom tries to gain favor of his dying grandma for her inheritance. Given that it’s a drama, you can predict what will ensue but it’s honestly refreshing and not as predictable as you’d think. The visuals have strong film emulation and halation to create a soft vibe, but overall still won’t feel as professionally presented for international audiences. The humor is cute and the characters are fine. There are definitely emotional moments, though I think some will be lost in translation for western audiences.
Conclusion:
Is this a good drama? Why not, but more cliché than I would have liked and not in a predictable way. There are lots of great strides made in this film that make it fresh like realistic motivations and modern perspectives. I also felt as though there was a very moving scene within its exceptional plot. But it all comes a little undone at crucial moments, which is disappointing because it feels like it could have been a story of contemporary Asia rather than exotic popcorn drama catering to Hollywood appeal. Still a good film.
Recommendations
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