What Is Make It Happen About?
The premise of Make It Happen in 268 words, with nothing given away. The full story follows below.
In the quiet town of Glenwood, Indiana, Lauryn Kirk nurtures a fierce ambition to turn her love of movement into a professional career. Raised amid the rhythms of a family garage, she feels the pull of a larger stage and sets her sights on a renowned dance program in the bustling heart of Chicago. The film opens with her departure, a mixture of hopeful anticipation and the weight of familial responsibility, establishing a world where personal dreams collide with the practical demands of home.
Chicago itself pulses like a living soundtrack, its club lights and underground studios offering a canvas for new, experimental styles that challenge traditional expectations. Here, Lauryn encounters a vibrant community that introduces her to an innovative form of dance—one that blends sensuality, athleticism, and self‑expression in ways she has never imagined. The tone is kinetic yet intimate, capturing both the exhilaration of discovery and the quiet moments of doubt that accompany any artistic pursuit.
Supporting figures such as Joel, her steadfast brother; Dana, a welcoming city native who provides a foothold in this unfamiliar terrain; Russ, a charismatic presence behind the turntables; and Brenda, the club’s intuitive owner, each embody different facets of the city’s creative ecosystem. Their interactions hint at the complex balance between mentorship, friendship, and the unspoken pressures of a world that often demands conformity. As Lauryn explores this dazzling yet demanding landscape, the story invites viewers to feel the beat of a journey defined by inner conflict, the search for an authentic voice, and the ever‑present question of how far one will go to claim a place on the floor.
What Happens in Make It Happen?
The complete story of Make It Happen, from the first scene to the last, in 743 words (about 3 minutes). Spoilers throughout. Names in the text link to 7 cast member pages.
Spoilers ahead
Lauryn Kirk, Mary Elizabeth Winstead is an ambitious dancer from Glenwood, Indiana who dreams of joining a renowned Chicago dance program. With no local schools to attend, she bids farewell to her brother, Joel, John Reardon, a mechanic who runs the family garage and worries about how Lauryn’s departure will affect them. Despite his concerns, Joel’s blessing comes from a place of pride, and Lauryn sets off toward the city with determination and a sense of responsibility to their family.
At the audition, Lauryn’s hip hop routine, though passionate, is deemed insufficient. The judge tells her they need to see something more sensual and feminine, a critique that stings and leaves her questioning whether she belongs in a world that values a different type of performance. She leaves the room carrying the sting of rejection, her hopes briefly dimmed but not extinguished.
Dejected, Lauryn retreats to a diner to gather herself, only to have misfortune strike again when her car is mistakenly towed. There, a friendly waitress, Dana, Tessa Thompson, offers warmth and practical help. Dana invites Lauryn to her apartment as a temporary refuge, recognizing that returning home would mean facing an uphill financial struggle that Lauryn isn’t ready to accept. The gesture marks a turning point, and Lauryn finds a sense of belonging she hadn’t expected in a city so large and demanding.
The next day Dana introduces Lauryn to Ruby’s, a club whose performances draw on burlesque roots and a pulse of late-night energy. It’s there that Lauryn crosses paths with Russ, Riley Smith, the smooth-talking disc jockey, and Brenda, Karen LeBlanc, the club owner who sees potential beyond the numbers in Lauryn’s skill set. Brenda hires Lauryn as a bookkeeper, valuing her sharp math mind even as Lauryn contends with the thrill and nerves of the club’s stage. Lauryn also witnesses Carmen, Julissa Bermudez, delivering a stunning onstage performance that hints at the vibrant competition and camaraderie inside Ruby’s.
One night, Lauryn steps onto the stage herself, a quiet, graceful solo that unfolds like a secret she’s kept inside. Russ watches from the shadows, recognizing her unpolished magnetism even before she fully embraces it. The following night, he invites her to perform, and Lauryn, initially hesitant, agrees. When the DJ spins a hip-hop track, she unleashes a bold, sultry routine that feels effortlessly natural, and the crowd responds with surprising energy. Her ascent stirs jealousy among Carmen and Brooke, Ashley Roberts, who both feel unsettled by the newcomer’s rapid rise and begin to plot ways to undermine her breakthrough.
The glamour of Ruby’s glitters against the harsher realities of Lauryn’s life back in Indiana. One night, Joel visits the club and a heated argument erupts as he laments the financial strain on the family garage and the mortgages piling up. Lauryn feels torn between the dream she’s chasing and the obligation she has to her brother and to the family business. The confrontation makes her pause and reconsider her path, yet a spark of resolve remains. It’s a moment that helps her recognize how her talents could still be a lifeline for the people she loves.
In a pivotal turn, Joel witnesses Lauryn dancing joyfully in the family garage, a sight that reframes his perspective on what she’s capable of and the impact her success could have on their future. He urges her to give the Chicago audition another chance, believing that a chance at success could ultimately save the business that keeps their family afloat. Bolstered by this support and guided by her own ambition, Lauryn returns to Chicago for a second audition. This time, she nails it, and a grateful, encouraging embrace from Russ signals a new sense of possibility.
Back at Ruby’s, Lauryn takes the opportunity to mend fences with Brenda, who had believed in her from the start and helped pave a path onto the club’s roster. The night culminates in a spontaneous celebration, with the club’s regulars and new faces joining in a party that bursts into dance. In the glow of the lights and the rhythm of the music, Lauryn realizes she has found not only a place to perform but a community that accepts her for who she is and what she can become. The film closes on a note of sustained momentum, leaving open the question of how Lauryn will balance the demands of art, ambition, and family as she steps further into a future shaped by rhythm, resolve, and resilience.
Make It Happen Timeline: Every Key Event in Order
14 key events in the order they happen, from “Lauryn leaves Glenwood for Chicago” to “Celebration as Lauryn joins Ruby's”. 14 events name a place, across 5 locations.
- 1
Lauryn leaves Glenwood for Chicago
Lauryn bids farewell to her brother Joel in Glenwood, Indiana as she heads to Chicago to audition for a renowned dance school. She hopes to prove she can train professionally despite the lack of local options. The journey marks the start of her pursuit of a big break in dance.
When:Before audition Where:Glenwood, Indiana
- 2
Audition rejection says need more sensuality
At the Chicago audition, Lauryn performs a hip-hop routine that leaves some observers impressed but is rejected by the judge. The judge states they need to see something more sensual and feminine. The setback highlights the gatekeeping she must navigate to advance.
When:During audition Where:Chicago
- 3
Diner visit, car towed
Dejected, Lauryn goes to a diner to drown her sorrows and ends up with a car towed. A kind waitress named Dana notices her distress and offers help, inviting Lauryn to stay with her. This act of generosity sets Lauryn on a new, unexpected path.
When:That night Where:Diner, Chicago
- 4
Dana guides Lauryn to Ruby's
Dana brings Lauryn to Ruby's club, where she meets Russ, the slick-talking DJ, and Brenda, the club owner. Brenda hires Lauryn as a bookkeeper based on her skills with numbers, giving her a foothold in the club's world. Lauryn begins to observe the performances, including Carmen's on-stage talents.
When:The next day Where:Ruby's Club, Chicago
- 5
Lauryn watches Carmen perform
Lauryn watches Carmen perform on the stage, absorbing the club's burlesque atmosphere. The dazzling routine sharpens Lauryn's awareness of a different style of stage presence. This experience foreshadows her later shift toward Ruby's world.
When:The same day Where:Ruby's Club, Chicago
- 6
Lauryn's secret late-night stage dance
Before closing, Lauryn steps onto the club stage to dance silently, letting her fluid movement speak for her. Russ observes her from the shadows, recognizing her potential. The moment marks the start of a changing relationship between her and the club's inner circle.
When:Late night Where:Ruby's Club, Chicago
- 7
Lauryn's first on-stage dance with Russ's push
The next night, Russ asks Lauryn to dance after witnessing her earlier display. She initially feels out of place, but when the music shifts to hip-hop she delivers a sexy routine. Her performance quickly makes her Ruby's new star and fuels tensions with rival dancers.
When:The next night Where:Ruby's Club, Chicago
- 8
Carmen and Brooke sabotage Lauryn
As Lauryn rises, Carmen and Brooke grow resentful and attempt to intimidate her, aiming to undermine her on stage. They spread whispers and create distractions during performances. Lauryn must decide whether to persist or retreat from Ruby's spotlight.
When:During her rise Where:Ruby's Club, Chicago
- 9
Joel confronts Lauryn; garage in danger
Joel confronts Lauryn at the club; they argue about the family garage and its mounting debts. Lauryn learns that the business is at risk because of mortgage troubles and financial pressures. The revelation deepens her conflict between family duty and chasing fame.
When:One night Where:Ruby's Club, Chicago
- 10
Lauryn contemplates returning to Indiana
Feeling torn, Lauryn decides to ditch the life on stage and return to Indiana to help save the family garage. It's a painful choice between pursuing success and supporting her brother and home. She resolves to re-evaluate her path.
When:Immediately after confrontation Where:Chicago
Show the other 4 events of Make It Happen Hide the last 4 events
- 11
Joel urges second audition after seeing her dancing
A turning moment occurs when Joel catches Lauryn joyfully dancing in the garage; he sees her happiness and urges her to give the Chicago audition another shot. He believes the family business can survive if she follows her dream with renewed focus. Lauryn agrees to try again, balancing love for family with ambition.
When:Later Where:Glenwood, Indiana (garage)
- 12
Second Chicago audition
Lauryn returns to Chicago for a second audition and nails it, earning encouragement from Russ and a sense of renewed purpose. She feels more confident and connected to the club's world. The triumph plants the seed for a future in Ruby's company.
When:Second audition Where:Chicago
- 13
Lauryn apologizes to Brenda; party planned
Back at Ruby's, Lauryn goes to apologize to Brenda, hoping to mend fences. To her surprise, Brenda and the staff throw a congratulatory party in her honor. The club erupts into celebration as Lauryn realizes she has found a new place to belong.
When:After second audition Where:Ruby's Club, Chicago
- 14
Celebration as Lauryn joins Ruby's
The party breaks into dance as Lauryn's success at Ruby's is celebrated by the club's staff and patrons. Lauryn accepts her new role with Russ's encouragement and Brenda's support. The final moment seals Lauryn's future at Ruby's and marks the start of her continued journey.
When:After second audition Where:Ruby's Club, Chicago
Who Are the Main Characters in Make It Happen?
7 characters, among them Lauryn Kirk (Mary Elizabeth Winstead), Dana (Tessa Thompson) and Brenda (Karen LeBlanc): who each one is and the part they play in the story. Every profile links to the actor’s page.
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Lauryn Kirk (Mary Elizabeth Winstead)
Played by Mary Elizabeth Winstead
A determined aspiring dancer from Glenwood who leaves home to pursue professional training in Chicago. She evolves from a hesitant newcomer into a confident performer, facing rejection, rivalry, and the lure of nightlife. Her journey centers on resilience, self-discovery, and balancing ambition with family ties.
- 🎭
- 💪
- 🧭
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Dana (Tessa Thompson)
Played by Tessa Thompson
A friendly diner waitress who takes Lauryn in after her car trouble. Dana becomes a mentor and ally, opening doors to new opportunities and a different social circle in the city. Her warmth contrasts with the cutthroat world Lauryn enters.
- 🤝
- 🗝️
- 💖
- B(
Brenda (Karen LeBlanc)
Played by Karen LeBlanc
Owner of Ruby's club who hires Lauryn as a bookkeeper and becomes a gatekeeper in the club's social dynamics. She embodies the business side of nightlife and the pressure to perform.
- 💼
- 🎟️
- 🗝️
- C(
Carmen (Julissa Bermudez)
Played by Julissa Bermudez
A rival dancer whose performances challenge Lauryn's ascent and inject tension into the club's backstage politics. Carmen represents competitive ambition and the dangers of sabotage.
- 👯♀️
- 🧗
- 🥊
- R(
Russ (Riley Smith)
Played by Riley Smith
The club's slick DJ who recognizes Lauryn's potential and nudges her toward the club's sexy hip-hop routine. He acts as a catalyst for Lauryn's transformation and a complicated romantic tension.
- 🎧
- 🔥
- 🤝
- J(
Joel (John Reardon)
Played by John Reardon
Lauryn's brother who runs the family garage and worries about finances. His struggle with mortgages and bills creates emotional stakes and motivates Lauryn's decisions.
- 👨👦
- ⚙️
- 🏠
- B(
Brooke (Ashley Roberts)
Played by Ashley Roberts
A dancer at Ruby's who resents Lauryn's rapid ascent and participates in attempts to undermine her. She embodies the backstage rivalry within the club.
- 🕺
- 👀
- 👎
Where and When Is Make It Happen Set?
Make It Happen is set in Glenwood, Indiana, Chicago, Illinois and Ruby's (club) in Chicago (late 2000s). Here is why the time and place matter to the story.
When
late 2000s
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.
Where
Glenwood, Indiana, Chicago, Illinois, Ruby's (club) in Chicago
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.
- 🎭 Small-town to big-city
- 🏙️ Nightlife and club culture
- 🎶 Dance world
What Are the Themes of Make It Happen?
3 ideas the story keeps returning to, among them Dream Pursuit, Dance Identity and Sacrifice and Return.
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01
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.
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02
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.
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03
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.
What Kind of Film Is Make It Happen?
Hopeful in tone, with steady pacing and a straightforward story, going by the plot summary.
- Tone
- Hopeful
- Pacing
- Steady
- Story
- Straightforward
- Intensity
- Medium
- Ending
- Happy
An uplifting and energetic dance drama that follows a determined young woman as she navigates the tension between family loyalty and her artistic ambitions, set to a vibrant club soundtrack.
- uplifting
- energetic
- dreamy
- competitive
- supportive
- tense moments
- coming of age
- pursuing a dream
- artistic expression
- family obligation
Quiz
How well do you remember Make It Happen? Test yourself on the story.
Where to Watch Make It Happen
Stream it on Fandango at Home Free and Hoopla, or rent or buy it from Amazon Video and Apple TV Store. US availability and prices from JustWatch.
Stream 8
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