The Rising Star of Thai Indie Cinema: Phakhin “First” Khamwilaisak’s Bold Leap into Filmmaking

A New Era for Thai Indie Films

Ever heard of someone switching from comedy to cinema and nailing it? Meet Phakhin “First” Khamwilaisak — a name that’s buzzing across Thailand’s film scene. Once known for making people laugh on TV, he’s now crafting emotional rollercoasters that are taking theaters by storm. Thai indie cinema has a new face, and it’s not just fresh — it’s fierce, relatable, and deeply heartfelt.

Thailand’s film industry has long been overshadowed by flashy Hollywood blockbusters and the K-wave charm. But lately, something real, raw, and local is catching fire. And First is leading that spark with stories that hit home.

From Laughs to Layers — Who is Phakhin “First” Khamwilaisak?

Let’s rewind for a second. First wasn’t always a film director. In fact, most people knew him from his stint as a television personality and comedy figure. He was the guy who made you laugh after a long day. But deep down, he had a different calling — storytelling on a much deeper level.

That transition wasn’t smooth. Imagine being known for jokes and then asking people to cry in your movie. It’s a leap of faith. But First wasn’t just diving in blindly — he brought with him empathy, emotional intelligence, and a burning desire to create films that mattered.

And guess what? It worked. His 2024 hit, “How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies,” didn’t just rake in box office numbers — it touched hearts. Across generations. Across regions. Across cultures.

Why His Movie Hit So Hard — It’s Not About Millions, It’s About Meaning

Let’s be honest — the title grabs you. “How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies” sounds like a comedy or maybe a con movie. But what you get is something completely different: a raw, emotional look at life, love, family, and regret.

Here’s why it worked:

• Relatability: Everyone has a grandparent. Everyone’s dealt with loss or the fear of it. The film captures those universal feelings.

• Authenticity: Nothing feels overacted. Characters cry quietly, not dramatically. They love silently, not in grand gestures.

• Narrative Simplicity: It’s not a complicated plot. But its emotional layers are deep and well-woven.

And yes, there’s money in the storyline. But it’s not really about money. It’s about realizing what truly matters — before it’s too late.

Thai Indie Films vs. Mainstream — What’s the Difference?

You might be wondering, what makes Thai indie films stand out from mainstream flicks? It’s not just budget — it’s a mindset.

First’s film represents everything beautiful about indie filmmaking — it’s not about showing off. It’s about showing truth.

The Ripple Effect: Changing the Game for Thai Cinema

You know how one matchstick can light an entire candle? That’s what First’s movie did to the industry. It reminded both creators and audiences that there’s a market — a need — for heartfelt, human stories.

After the release of “How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies,” the buzz wasn’t just on TikTok and YouTube. Film students began referencing it in class. Directors began rethinking scripts. Actors were open to roles that didn’t revolve around glamor, but grief.

Theaters that usually reserved shows for Hollywood blockbusters gave more screens to this humble family drama. That’s not just success — that’s impact.

The Man Behind the Camera: First’s Filmmaking Philosophy

First isn’t trying to compete with the big studios. In his own words, he wants to tell stories that “leave something behind.” His inspiration? Conversations with his mom. Real-life regrets. Quiet family dinners.

He believes in using humor as an emotional softener — not to deflect pain, but to make it easier to digest. His direction style isn’t about loud instructions or dramatic takes. It’s about making actors feel — and letting the audience do the same.

He also collaborates with young, hungry talent. From the lead actor Putthipong “Billkin” Assaratanakul to lesser-known supporting characters, every performance shines because First gives them room to breathe.

Audience Reactions: Why People Are Crying in Theatres Again

What’s special about this moment is that Thai audiences aren’t just watching — they’re feeling.

People are taking their grandparents to the movies. Grown men are walking out of the theatre with misty eyes. Influencers are posting without spoilers because they don’t want to ruin the emotional journey for others.

It’s not just a film. It’s a reminder. A mirror. A quiet nudge to call your grandma.

What This Means for Thai Indie Film’s Future

This could be a turning point. Not just for First, but for a generation of Thai storytellers. Here’s what we might see next:

• More Intimate Stories: Expect themes like grief, identity, LGBTQ+ issues, and rural life to take center stage.

• Better Funding for Indies: Studios will want to back content that has both heart and commercial pull.

• International Recognition: Festivals like Cannes, Berlinale, and Sundance are already watching closely.

• Cross-cultural Appeal: The themes are universal. That means more subtitles, streaming rights, and global viewership.

Thai indie cinema isn’t just surviving — it’s thriving. And directors like First are paving the way for others to follow.

Conclusion: A Laughing Man Who Made the Nation Cry

Phakhin “First” Khamwilaisak did something rare. He stepped out of his comfort zone and into a space that needed truth. He took a risk — and it paid off, not just at the box office, but in people’s hearts.

In an era of CGI and over-the-top drama, he offered something simple — a story about a boy, his grandma, and the lessons we learn when time is running out.

So the next time you think indie films are “slow” or “boring,” think again. Sometimes, the quietest stories make the loudest impact.