Make It Happen

Set in a contemporary late-2000s milieu, the story follows Lauryn's move between Indiana and Chicago. The era features hip-hop-inflected dance culture and a nightlife scene that shapes her early career. The time period anchors the narrative in modern industry dynamics and audition pressures.

Glenwood, Indiana represents Lauryn's humble beginnings and the limits she aims to break. Chicago becomes the bustling testing ground for auditions, performance venues, and the demanding dance scene. Ruby's, a burlesque-tinged club in Chicago, serves as the stage where Lauryn's talent is tested and where rivalry and mentorship intersect. The contrast between a quiet hometown and a vibrant city drives the film's energy.

🔥 Dream Pursuit

Lauryn leaves her small town to chase a professional dancing career in Chicago, facing the harsh reality of auditions. Rejected for lacking sensuality, she learns to reframe her performance and push through setbacks. The arc centers on grit, perseverance, and the belief that talent can be forged into opportunity through discipline and risk.

💃 Dance Identity

Lauryn experiments with different styles, moving from hip-hop to a more sensual stage persona to satisfy the club audience and management. The transformation reveals how performance can shape self-image and agency, revealing confidence she didn't show at first. The dynamic also explores how others' expectations influence personal expression in the world of dance.

🏠 Sacrifice and Return

Family responsibilities pull Lauryn back toward Indiana to support her brother Joel and the family garage, highlighting the conflict between personal dreams and familial duty. After acknowledging the stakes, she returns to Chicago for a second audition, demonstrating commitment and growth. The ending suggests that success includes choosing where you belong and the people you choose to fight for.