Azuka Studios presents Lara Unlimited, a refreshing spin-off of the much-loved Smart Money Woman. This time, the spotlight is on Lara, ambitious, stylish, and constantly striving to become the best version of herself. The movie gives us a closer look into her world as a businesswoman navigating not just the boardroom but also life’s battles. Directed by Arese Ugwu, Lara Unlimited is available to watch on YouTube.
Plot
Lara Unlimited picks up with Lara fresh from a successful business trip to Dubai. Confident in her numbers and past contributions to the Oasis Oil Group, Lara believes she’s the ideal candidate for an open board seat, her main competition being the equally ambitious Mr Frank. Lara, an executive known for her drive and sharp intellect, is determined not just to be seen but to be rightfully rewarded.
To solidify her position, she forms what seems like a strategic alliance with a female board member, hoping it would boost her chances. But in a surprising twist, the board supports Mr Frank instead. The betrayal hits hard, and in a moment of emotional outburst, Lara reacts publicly to the decision and is consequently suspended.
At the same time, she struggles with personal challenges, especially a romantic relationship that’s been on shaky ground. While her partner is finally ready to commit, Lara is still working through deep-seated trust issues, adding another layer to her emotional turmoil.
Things take a sharp turn when a crisis erupts in a rural community where Oasis is operating. The company had promised development, schools, hospitals, and healthcare but failed to deliver. The death of an 11-year-old boy from typhoid, caused by polluted water, sparks outrage. Community leader Ebitari emerges to demand justice, with threats to expose the company’s negligence.
Mr Frank attempts damage control by offering money, but it only deepens the community’s distrust. The board, in panic, reaches out to Lara. She returns, only to uncover that Frank had been embezzling company funds all along. With integrity and tact, Lara manages the crisis, helps rebuild the company’s image, and walks away, again.
However, when Oasis begins to suffer financially, they return to Lara. This time, she’s no longer bargaining from a place of desperation. She negotiates a strong deal, including a 20% equity share for a board member, and steps back in on her terms.
Amidst all this, Lara starts a foundation in her late mother’s name, honouring her memory while finding healing. Her personal life also begins to find its footing, as her relationship takes a turn for the better.
Cast
Featuring actors like Toni Tones, Ife Alakija, Olakunle Fowale, Nicole Ikot, Joshua Nnedu, Catherina Nwakuba, Zikora Ugwu Micheal, Natse Jemide, Kingsley Nwachukwu, Justin Ben, and Tolu Odewumi, Lara Unlimited had all the names but none of the spark. The performances felt overly scripted and lacked the depth or authenticity needed to connect fully. It was obvious we were watching a movie; nothing felt natural, and unfortunately, no character truly stood out.
Language
Lara Unlimited was performed in English.
Final take
One thing that stood out in Lara Unlimited was the costume game; whoever styled Lara really understood the assignment. Her looks, matched with solid colour grading, perfectly reflected her bold and ambitious personality. But that’s where the shine ends.
The acting, across the board, felt stiff and overly scripted. Dialogues came off more like rehearsed lines than natural conversation, making it hard to feel any real connection, especially with Lara, who should’ve been the emotional anchor of the story.
The plot itself didn’t do much either. While the idea of giving Lara her spotlight sounded promising, the execution made it feel unnecessary. The version of Lara we got here lacked the spark that made her interesting in Smart Money Woman. Instead, she came off dull, and some of the romantic scenes? Honestly, a little cringey.
Visually, the opening scenes felt more like an advert than a movie, which makes sense when you find out it was shot entirely on a phone as part of a brand partnership. Creative, yes. Cinematic? Not quite.
Ultimately, the film feels like a missed opportunity, a weak portrayal of a strong character. It might’ve worked better as a short brand ad than a full-length feature. Hopefully, if spin-offs are planned for the other three women from Smart Money Casual, they’ll be given better treatment.
