Lara & the Beat

Lara & the Beat is a 2018 Nigerian blockbuster movie that combines an enticing drama, thrilling music, and convincing performances from an ensemble cast. The film stars some of Nigeria's talented actors and actresses including Ademola Adedoyin, Kemi Lala Akindoju, and Chioma Chukwuka Akpotha.

The plot focuses on the personal growth of the two Giwa sisters, Lara and Dara, who are left to navigate the harsh realities of life following the loss of their family’s wealth due to their parents’ formidable debt. Keeping true to the Nollywood tradition, Lara & the Beat is a distinct demonstration of the socio-economic reality and the drive for personal development amid hardships that many are familiar with.

In the midst of all this, the movie explores the journey of Lara Giwa, played by Seyi Shay, who is a structured, rigorous, overly ambitious and passionate clip. Lara's character arc is beautifully contrasted with her younger sister, Dara Giwa, essayed by Somkele Idhalama, who is free-spirited, warm, kind, and the life of a party.

The film showcases how Lara, a fashionable ex-socialite, and her more sensitive sibling Dara face the negative judgment of society and deal with failed businesses, striking a delicate balance between the anguish of losing their wealth and the joy of finding their inner strength.

As Lara faces their new found reality, the film interestingly takes a slight detour when it integrates her latent musical talent. A pivotal moment in the film is when Lara, a defiant, young woman explores and pursues her passion for music which becomes a vehicle for her redemption and a path towards rebuilding her life.

Ademola Adedoyin brilliantly portrays "Sal," a character with unique depth and heart. Sal is a music producer who not only helps Lara to refine her raw musical gift but also falls in love with her, leading to a delightful romantic twist in the screenplay.

The film also focuses on the importance of sisterhood and family. It highlights the relationship between Lara and Dara, which is a typical depiction of sibling love, rivalry, support, and guidance. We see them traversing the terrain of dreams, failure, and success together, each being the other's pillar of strength.

Kemi Lala Akindoju plays the character of "Jennifer," a quirky, passionate journalist and Chioma Chukwuka Akpotha brings to life an ambitious Manager - two significant roles that add their unique flavor to the movie’s storyline.

The film is directed by Tosin Coker, who weaves this tale of hardship and success with utmost sincerity and compelling cinematography. The vibrant colors, bustling streets of Lagos, unique fashion, and the Nigerian pop music landscape add a special touch to the film’s visual appeal. The original soundtrack effectively complements the narrative, blending in seamlessly that keeps you delighted throughout.

Besides the entertaining narrative, the film also sublimely deals with some of the underlying economic and social issues in Nigeria. Its appealing script manages to bring forth the importance of strong will, family bonds, and self-belief while subtly addressing subjects of economic disparity, social status, and the impact of corrupt practices.

The performances in Lara & the Beat are praiseworthy. Seyi Shay leaves a mark by delivering a striking performance, easily shifting between her character's flamboyant high-life and crippling low-points. Somkele Idhalama imbues her role with true charm and sincerity. Ademola Adedoyin, Kemi Lala Akindoju, and Chioma Chukwuka Akpotha all deserve accolades for their portrayals.

The story is told with immense brilliance, the frequency of the beat is set correctly, and the tunes match the rhythm throughout, making Lara & the Beat a rhythmically captivating, emotionally poignant, and visually stunning cinematic adventure.

In conclusion, Lara & the Beat is a compelling watch that doesn’t just tell a profound story about resilience and redemption, but also reveals the vibrant culture of Nigeria and its burgeoning music scene. It is a beautiful blend of music, drama, romance, and reality, an enlivening cinematic journey endowed with the signature sparkle of African entertainment that will keep you intrigued till the end.