Miramax has landed remake rights to Thailand’s breakout hit “How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies,” the studio confirmed Wednesday, setting wheels in motion for an English-language version.
The original film, directed by Pat Boonnitipat and produced by Bangkok-based powerhouse GDH 559, became a sensation across Asia, generating over $55 million internationally and earning the distinction of being the first Thai film shortlisted for Academy Awards consideration. Stateside, the film bowed at the New York Asian Film Festival to critical acclaim and won the audience award.
The comedy-drama follows M, a university dropout who moves in with his terminally ill grandmother, Mengju, with hopes of securing an inheritance. What begins as a cynical scheme evolves into a heartfelt exploration of familial bonds, duty, and intergenerational dynamics.
The acquisition sparked a competitive bidding situation with multiple studios expressing interest. The deal was ultimately brokered by Nelson Mok of Mokster Films representing GDH. Yvette Zhuang, Miramax’s senior VP of international production and distribution, was instrumental in securing the property and will remain attached as producer even as she steps down from her executive role later this month.
“‘How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies’ is a rare gem that manages to be hilarious, surprisingly poignant, and moving all at once,” Miramax CEO Jonathan Glickman said in a statement. “Like the original, we hope our adaptation brings generations of families to the cinema together.”
Boonnitipat added: “Its success worldwide surprises me, yet it warms my heart to know that people across the world share this value — or some kind of core — that connects us beyond the identities of countries or cultures.”
Producer Vanridee Pongsittisak said: “The heart of a family is universal, but each home holds an entirely different story. That’s why I’m excited to see ‘How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies’ come to life once again — this time in an American household.”
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