หลานม่า (How To Make Millions Before Grandma Dies) - Movie Review

Summary

In this video, the reviewer discusses *How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies*, a Thai film about a grandson who tries to secure money for his terminally ill grandmother. The reviewer appreciates the film's heartfelt themes around respecting elders and family but criticizes the over-revealing English title and conventional cinematography. While the first half of the film feels average, the second half becomes more engaging with stronger character dynamics. The score is described as overly manipulative, but the strong chemistry between the main characters shines through. Despite some flaws, the film is rated 8/10 for its emotional impact and cultural significance.

Takeaways

• 😀 The video is a movie review of 'How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies', released in Southeast Asia and East Asia earlier in the year.
• 😀 The film follows the story of a grandson trying to make money for his terminally ill grandmother before her death.
• 😀 The title in its original language, 'LMA', translates to 'Grandma's Grandson', which the reviewer feels is a better title than the English version, which spoils the plot.
• 😀 The film touches on themes of family, elder respect, and the relationship between a grandson and his grandmother, which resonates with East Asian audiences.
• 😀 The reviewer believes that films about respecting family are more common in Hong Kong and East Asia, but are rare in Western cinema, explaining the film's popularity in Western spaces like Letterboxd.
• 😀 Despite being a solid film, the reviewer criticizes the cinematography for being conventional and not transcending film language or offering anything groundbreaking.
• 😀 The reviewer compares the film to works of Japanese director Koda, noting that Koda's films have a more intimate and personal style, which the film lacks.
• 😀 A comparison to the Hong Kong film 'Summer Snow' is made, suggesting that 'How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies' lacks the emotional impact of this older work.
• 😀 The film's pacing is criticized, with the first half being less compelling, while the second half becomes more engaging due to the introduction of antagonistic characters.
• 😀 The score, particularly the frequent use of piano, is seen as intrusive and detracts from the storytelling, as it attempts to dictate the viewer's emotions.
• 😀 Despite these criticisms, the reviewer acknowledges the strong chemistry between the grandmother and grandson, as well as some touching and tear-jerking moments in the film.

Q & A

What is the film *How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies* about?

The film is about a grandson trying to earn money for his terminally ill grandmother before she passes away. It explores themes of family, love, and the urgency of time.

Why does the reviewer prefer the original Thai title *LMA* over the English title?

The reviewer feels that the English title, *How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies*, reveals too much of the plot, particularly the tragic element of the grandmother's terminal illness. The original title, *LMA*, is considered a better fit as it preserves the surprise and emotional impact.

How does the reviewer feel about the cinematography of the film?

The reviewer thinks the cinematography is solid but conventional. They feel it doesn't break new ground or create an intimate connection with the audience, unlike films from directors like Koda, whose work is praised for its more personal and innovative approach.

What comparison does the reviewer make between this film and *Summer Snow* (1995)?

The reviewer compares *How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies* to *Summer Snow*, a Hong Kong film. They argue that *Summer Snow* is more emotionally impactful and effective in its approach, particularly because of its balance of humor and sadness, which allows for deeper emotional resonance.

What does the reviewer criticize about the film's music?

The reviewer criticizes the score, especially the repetitive and intrusive piano music, which they feel is overly manipulative. They believe the music tells the audience how to feel instead of letting the story naturally evoke emotion.

How does the reviewer feel about the performances in the film?

The reviewer praises the performances, particularly that of the grandmother, who they describe as a fantastic actress. They highlight the strong chemistry between the grandmother and her grandson, which contributes positively to the film's emotional moments.

Does the reviewer consider the film a success overall?

While the reviewer acknowledges the film's strengths, including its solid performances and emotional moments, they feel it lacks depth and innovation in its execution. They consider it a decent film, giving it a rating of 8/10.

What is the reviewer's opinion on the film's plot structure?

The reviewer feels that the first half of the film is decent at best and not very compelling. However, the second half becomes more engaging as new antagonistic characters are introduced, which adds complexity and makes the family drama more interesting.

Why does the reviewer mention *Tokyo Story*?

The reviewer mentions *Tokyo Story* as a recommendation for those who enjoy family dramas. They believe that *Tokyo Story* is in a different league compared to *How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies*, offering a much more impactful and emotionally complex portrayal of family.

What cultural elements does the reviewer mention in relation to the film?

The reviewer notes that the film taps into East Asian traditions of respecting elders, which resonates more deeply with audiences from East and Southeast Asia. They also point out that similar themes are explored in Hong Kong cinema, although this is less common in Western films.