Miramax has officially acquired the English-language remake rights to Thailand’s biggest box office success of the year, How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies.
The emotional comedy-drama, directed by Pat Boonnitipat and produced by Bangkok’s top studio GDH 559, has grossed over $55 million internationally and earned critical praise across Asia and the U.S.
The film, which made waves at the New York Asian Film Festival and won the audience award, also became the first Thai film ever shortlisted for the Oscars.
At its heart, the story follows M, a disillusioned university dropout who moves in with his terminally ill grandmother, hoping to earn her inheritance. What starts as a selfish ploy evolves into a touching story of family, love, and generational connection, resonating deeply with audiences worldwide.
Miramax’s acquisition came after a fierce bidding war with several major studios. The deal was handled by Nelson Mok of Mokster Films representing GDH, while Yvette Zhuang, Miramax’s SVP of international production and distribution, helped lock it in. Zhuang will also stay on as producer for the remake, even as she exits her executive role later this month.
Miramax CEO Jonathan Glickman called the film “a rare gem” and said he hopes the adaptation will “bring generations of families to the cinema together,” just like the original.
Director Boonnitipat expressed gratitude for the global response: “Its success surprises me, yet it warms my heart to know that people across the world share this value that connects us beyond identities.”
Producer Vanridee Pongsittisak added, “The heart of a family is universal. Every household tells a different story. That’s why I’m excited to see this film come to life again — this time in an American home.”
The English-language remake aims to retain the emotional depth and humor of the original, introducing global audiences to a powerful story that transcends cultural borders.
