Netflix Picks Up Thai Hit Film ‘How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies’

GRANDMA GOING WIDE

Global streaming giant Netflix has acquired the rights to the Thai hit film “How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies.” The movie will begin streaming in Southeast Asia on September 12 and will become available in other regions later this year.

Produced by GDH 559, “How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies” is penned by Thodsapon Thiptinnakorn, drawing inspiration from personal experiences, and directed by Pat Boonnitipat, known for his work on “Bad Genius.” Released in cinemas in April, it has become the highest-grossing Thai film to date in several countries, including Indonesia, Singapore, the Philippines, Malaysia, Myanmar, and Vietnam.

The storyline centers on M, portrayed by Putthipong “Billkin” Assaratanakul. Driven by the prospect of a multimillion-dollar inheritance, M abandons his dream of becoming a game caster to take care of his terminally ill grandmother, played by Usha Seamkhum. However, pleasing Grandma is no simple task, given her demanding and difficult nature. The plot thickens as M realizes he is not the sole competitor for the fortune, leading to a fierce contest to win her favor before it’s too late.

This film marks Boonnitipat’s debut as a feature film director and serves as Billkin’s and Usha’s first leading roles in a movie. The ensemble cast also includes Sanya Kunakorn, Sarinrat Thomas, Pongsatorn Jongwilas, Duangporn Oapirat, Himawari Tajiri, and Tontawan Tantivejakul.

NEW ZEALAND RETURN

Graeme Mason has been appointed as the new chair of the board at the New Zealand Film Commission (NZFC). Mason most recently served as the CEO of Screen Australia and was previously the chief executive of the NZFC from 2009 to 2013.

Mason’s career also includes a notable tenure in the U.K., where he held senior positions such as Senior VP at Polygram Filmed Entertainment and President of Worldwide Acquisitions at Universal Studios. He has also worked with Channel 4 in multiple film-related roles.

“Graeme brings a wealth of leadership skills as well as local and international industry experience that will be invaluable to the role. He has been the chief executive of Screen Australia for a decade, previously chief executive of NZFC itself for over four years, and has more than 30 years of international experience in film, television, and multimedia businesses,” said Arts Minister Paul Goldsmith.

Source: Netflix, GDH 559, New Zealand Film Commission