"How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies" Shakes the World - Thai Impact | Thailand Travel, Culture, Food & Local Vibes

The Thai film “How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies” (หลานม่า) has achieved global success, not just in terms of box office revenue, but also by reflecting the profound truth of family bonds that transcend borders, generations, and cultures. As a sociologist, I’ll delve into why “Grandma Dies” resonated with audiences worldwide and how it will impact East Asian and Western societies.

“Grandma Dies”: Reflecting the “Lost Family” in East Asian Societies

East Asian societies like China, Japan, South Korea, and even Thailand, are undergoing significant changes. The “extended family,” once a cornerstone, is being replaced by “nuclear families” or even individuals living alone. Key reasons for this include:

Urbanization: Migration to large cities for work leads to family members living far apart.
Individualism: Younger generations prioritize independence and personal lives more.
Low Birth Rates: This results in smaller family structures and an increasing number of elderly people.

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“How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies” fills this emotional void perfectly. The film portrays the relationship between “M,” a modern, self-centered grandson, and “Ah Ma,” a traditional grandmother, through a story full of laughter and tears. The film prompts young people in East Asia to reflect on:

The enduring value of family: No matter how fast-paced life gets, the warmth from family remains a source of comfort.
The generation gap: Differences in thought are not barriers if we are willing to understand each other.
Elderly care: Is it a burden, a duty, or love? The film encourages reflection on the value of caring for the elderly at home, a culture that is gradually fading.

Impact: “Grandma Dies” will stimulate discussions and campaigns for a “return to family roots” in East Asian societies. It may lead to initiatives promoting intergenerational relationships or even designing public spaces that facilitate family gatherings.

“Grandma Dies”: Opening New Perspectives for Individualistic Western Societies

In contrast, Western societies, with their core principles of “individualism” and “personal freedom,” may not place as much emphasis on the “extended family” as East Asian societies. Elderly care is often the responsibility of institutions such as nursing homes or professional caregivers.

However, “How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies” still managed to touch the hearts of Western audiences because it speaks to the “universal human experience.” Regardless of ethnicity or culture, people still seek:

Unconditional love: The bond between grandson and grandmother, though initially driven by self-interest, ultimately transforms into pure love.
Connection to the past: Ah Ma symbolizes the family’s roots and history. Learning from the elderly is therefore a way to carry on wisdom.
Death and parting: The film presents the topic of death naturally and encourages viewers to appreciate the value of shared time.

Impact: “Grandma Dies” will act as a bridge connecting cultures, allowing Westerners to see a new perspective of “family”—not just as a small unit, but as an ecosystem that nurtures life. The film’s success in the West may lead to increased interest in content that emphasizes “cultural values” and “family diversity” in films and other media.

“Grandma Dies”: A Lesson for the New Generation: Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

For the new generation, like you, who are living fast-paced lives, focused on careers, or chasing success, “How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies” is an important mirror:

Time is precious: Every minute you spend with your family, especially the elderly, is a moment that cannot be relived.
Expression: Don’t keep your love and concern hidden. Expressing your feelings is important.
Create memories: Cherish all the good memories with your family, as they are the most valuable things.

“How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies” proves that the story of “family” is not just a personal matter, but a matter for “all humans.” No matter where you are in the world, this film will remind you to always seek the “warmth” that is closest to you.

How do you think “How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies” will change the perspectives of the new generation? I’d love to hear your thoughts!