How to Be a Millionaire (1989) movie backdrop
How to Be a Millionaire (1989) movie poster
198985 minComedy, Drama
Audience VerdictFLOP

How to Be a Millionaire

How to Be a Millionaire Movie Hit or Flop?

FLOP

Verdict:How to Be a Millionaire is a confirmed FLOP based on our analysis of audience ratings and box office momentum.

With a rating of 4.5/10, it has delivered a mixed experience for fans of the Comedy, Drama genre.

Is How to Be a Millionaire Worth Watching?

Answer: Maybe not, How to Be a Millionaire is likely a skip if you enjoy Comedy movies.

It features a runtime of 85 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.

4.52 votes
85Minutes
1989Release Year
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How to Be a Millionaire Review

Last updated: January 11, 2026

🎬 The Premise

Released in 1989, How to Be a Millionaire enters the Comedy genre with a narrative focused on Wong is a junior clerk in a construction company. Under the direction of Clifton Ko Chi-Sum, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.

🎭 Cast & Performance

The film is anchored by performances from Ricky Hui Koon-Ying. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.

🎥 Technical Mastery & Style

From a technical standpoint, How to Be a Millionaire offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.

🌍 Social Impact & Cultural Context

Beyond the narrative, How to Be a Millionaire resonates with current cultural themes in the Comedy space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.

📺 Where to Watch & Streaming Info

As of early 2026, How to Be a Millionaire is available in theaters worldwide. For audiences in the US, UK, and India, digital rentals are typically available on platforms like Amazon Prime and Apple TV roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release.

📖 Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown

The plot of How to Be a Millionaire centers on a unique premise within the Comedy landscape. Wong is a junior clerk in a construction company. He lives under the care of his uncle and his cousin, Ping. But the woman who occupies Wong's attention is Jenny, the widowed wife of the son of his boss. One day, a Billionaire leaves Wong with the secret to become rich. Things seem to go smoothly with him. He is promoted twice, and now as the Assistant Manager. The boss even consents to his marriage with Jenny. The newly-wed couple goes on a honeymoon trip in Switzerland. He dashes into a... The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1989 cinema will find fairly predictable.

💡 Ending Explained & Sequel Potential

The ending of How to Be a Millionaire has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a How to Be a Millionaire sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.

📝 Final Editorial Verdict

Final verdict for How to Be a Millionaire (1989): with an audience rating of 4.5/10, the reception has been negative. It is a recommended for fans of Comedy, Drama cinema who appreciate attention to detail.

Parents Guide & Age Rating

Not Rated
How to Be a Millionaire has not been officially rated yet.

Final Verdict

Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 4.5/10, and global collection metrics, How to Be a Millionaire stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1989 cinematic year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is How to Be a Millionaire movie hit or flop?

How to Be a Millionaire is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 4.5/10 and lower collections.

Is How to Be a Millionaire worth watching?

Based on the low rating of 4.5/10, How to Be a Millionaire may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.

Where can I watch How to Be a Millionaire online?

How to Be a Millionaire may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.

Explore More Verdicts

Expert Consensus
Live Rating
MOVIEMX
★ 4.5
How to Be a Millionaire
<a href="https://moviemx.in/review/how-to-be-a-millionaire-404371" target="_blank" style="text-decoration:none;"><div style="background:#121212;border:1px solid #f5c518;border-radius:12px;padding:15px;width:180px;text-align:center;font-family:sans-serif;box-shadow:0 10px 20px rgba(0,0,0,0.3);"><div style="color:#f5c518;font-size:10px;font-weight:900;letter-spacing:2px;">MOVIEMX</div><div style="color:white;font-size:28px;font-weight:900;margin:8px 0;">★ 4.5</div><div style="color:#888;font-size:12px;font-weight:500;">How to Be a Millionaire</div></div></a>

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More with Ricky Hui Koon-Ying

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People Also Ask (FAQs)

Is How to Be a Millionaire movie hit or flop?

How to Be a Millionaire is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 4.5/10 and lower collections.

Is How to Be a Millionaire worth watching?

Based on the low rating of 4.5/10, How to Be a Millionaire may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.

Where can I watch How to Be a Millionaire online?

How to Be a Millionaire may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.

What is the story of How to Be a Millionaire?

How to Be a Millionaire is a Comedy, Drama movie that follows: Wong is a junior clerk in a construction company. He lives under the care of his uncle and his cousin, Ping. But the woman who occupies Wong's attention is Jenny, the widowed wife of the son of his bo...

Is How to Be a Millionaire family friendly?

Yes, How to Be a Millionaire is generally suitable for family viewing as it is a Comedy, Drama movie.

What language is How to Be a Millionaire available in?

How to Be a Millionaire is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.

Synopsis

Wong is a junior clerk in a construction company. He lives under the care of his uncle and his cousin, Ping. But the woman who occupies Wong's attention is Jenny, the widowed wife of the son of his boss. One day, a Billionaire leaves Wong with the secret to become rich. Things seem to go smoothly with him. He is promoted twice, and now as the Assistant Manager. The boss even consents to his marriage with Jenny. The newly-wed couple goes on a honeymoon trip in Switzerland. He dashes into a...

Critic Reviews

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