Threads of fate (Movie script set in Lagos, Nigeria)

Plot Outline

a woman in her mid-20s, Adaora, is an aspiring fashion designer and it has always been her dream to own her own fashion brand so she dedicates all her time and energy to her goal. Because of this, most of her friends get married and begin to raise a family. This also causes her family to increasingly pressure her to start a family of her own. Her mother and father keep setting her up with suitors, but her younger sister, Chidinma, stays supportive of her choices through it all, as well as a male designer friend named Charles whom she met from a collaborative project she did with him. He becomes a good friend she can confide in, but she never thinks much of him. Then her old childhood friend, Chike, returns from the states and shows interest in her, and makes promises to give her the big break she need for her fashion brand. After some time, she gets a major publicity and exposure for her brand in the form of an interview by a major fashion show, and magazine headlines, and she assumes it’s the work of Chike, and he acts like he was the one who helped her, so she begins to develop feelings for him because she believes he truly supports her. So they start dating but it eventually becomes apparent that he doesn’t actually care about her work. So she finally looks into it and finds out that it was actually Charles who gave up the spot himself and recommended her instead. So she breaks up with Chike and tries to make it up to Charles after explaining to him that she didn’t know he had been her real benefactor all this time, and Charles confesses his feelings for her, and they agree to get closer to each other and see what the future holds for them.

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Script Outline:

Title: T.B.D

Genre: Drama/Romance

Setting: Lagos, Nigeria. The story revolves around the fashion industry, family dynamics, and relationships.

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Main Characters:

1. Adaora (Mid-20s): An ambitious, hardworking aspiring fashion designer. She’s dedicated to her career and dreams of establishing her own fashion brand. Adaora is independent but faces increasing pressure from her family to settle down.

2. Chidinma (Early 20s): Adaora’s younger sister, who is supportive and understanding of her sister’s dreams. Chidinma is more traditional but stands by Adaora’s choices.

3. Charles (Late 20s): A talented male designer and Adaora’s friend. He is kind, patient, and supportive of Adaora’s ambitions. Although he harbors feelings for her, he respects her focus on her career.

4. Chike (Late 20s): Adaora’s childhood friend, recently returned from the U.S. He is charming, confident, and appears to be the perfect partner. However, his interest in Adaora is more superficial than it seems.

5. Mrs. Okeke (Late 50s): Adaora and Chidinma’s mother. Traditional and caring, she constantly pressures Adaora to settle down and start a family.

6. Mr. Okeke (Early 60s): Adaora’s father, more reserved but also supports his wife’s wishes for Adaora to marry.

7. Fashion Industry Figures: Various minor characters like magazine editors, journalists, and other designers who play roles in Adaora’s career progression.

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Plot Summary:

Act 1: Introduction

• Scene 1: The story begins with Adaora working late at her small studio, immersed in her designs. She receives a call from her mother, Mrs. Okeke, reminding her of yet another family gathering where a potential suitor will be present. Adaora reluctantly agrees to attend.

• Scene 2: At the family gathering, Adaora is introduced to a suitor, but her mind is clearly elsewhere. Chidinma senses her discomfort and later reassures her sister that it’s okay to focus on her career.

• Scene 3: Adaora meets with Charles to discuss a new fashion project. Their rapport is easy and comfortable, showcasing their strong friendship. Charles hints at opportunities that could boost her career, but Adaora is too focused on her work to notice his feelings.

Act 2: Conflict

• Scene 4: Chike returns to Lagos and reconnects with Adaora. He’s impressed by her dedication and starts spending more time with her, offering help to advance her fashion brand. Adaora begins to believe Chike could be the supportive partner she’s been looking for.

• Scene 5: Adaora starts dating Chike, encouraged by her belief that he is helping her career. Meanwhile, Charles watches from the sidelines, continuing to support her in subtle ways, like recommending her to important industry contacts.

• Scene 6: Adaora receives major publicity after an interview with a top fashion show and features in magazine headlines. She assumes Chike was behind it and grows more attached to him, unaware that it was Charles who orchestrated these opportunities.

Act 3: Climax

• Scene 7: Adaora discovers that Chike is not as invested in her work as she thought. He begins to show disinterest in her career, focusing more on their social life and trying to push her toward more traditional roles.

• Scene 8: Feeling confused and betrayed, Adaora digs deeper and uncovers that Charles was the one who had been quietly supporting her all along. She confronts Chike, leading to a breakup.

• Scene 9: Adaora approaches Charles, explaining that she misunderstood the situation and apologizing for not recognizing his role in her success. Charles confesses his feelings, revealing that he has always admired her dedication and talent.

Act 4: Resolution

• Scene 10: Adaora and Charles agree to explore their feelings and see where their relationship might lead, both personally and professionally. The final scene shows Adaora successfully launching her fashion brand with Charles by her side, symbolizing both her career triumph and the beginning of a new chapter in her life.

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Script:

Act 1: Introduction

Scene 1: Adaora’s Studio – Night

(The camera opens on a small, cozy studio filled with sketches, fabrics, and mannequins. Adaora is hunched over her sewing machine, completely focused on her work. The room is dimly lit, with only a desk lamp illuminating her workspace. Her phone buzzes on the table, interrupting her concentration.)

Adaora: (Glances at the phone, sees “Mom” on the caller ID, and sighs) Hello, Mama.

Mrs. Okeke (Voiceover): (Cheerful but firm) Adaora, my dear! I hope you haven’t forgotten about the family gathering tomorrow. We’re expecting you to be there on time, and there’s someone I want you to meet.

Adaora: (Already knows where this is going) Mama, I’ve been really busy with work. Can’t it wait?

Mrs. Okeke (Voiceover): (Insistent) Work, work, work! Adaora, you’re not getting any younger. It’s time to start thinking about your future, a family of your own. You’ll like him, I promise. He’s a good man.

Adaora: (Resigned) I’ll be there, Mama. But please, no promises.

Mrs. Okeke (Voiceover): Good! That’s my girl. See you tomorrow. And don’t be late.

(Adaora hangs up, leaning back in her chair with a heavy sigh. She looks around her studio, the place she feels most alive, and shakes her head slightly before returning to her work.)

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Scene 2: Okeke Family Gathering – Afternoon

(The scene transitions to a lively family gathering at the Okeke household. Relatives are chatting, children are playing, and a variety of Nigerian dishes are spread out on the table. Adaora arrives, dressed elegantly but slightly detached from the festivities. She’s immediately greeted by her mother, who is beaming with excitement.)

Mrs. Okeke: (Taking Adaora’s hand) There you are! Come, come, there’s someone I want you to meet.

Adaora: (Smiling politely but clearly uninterested) Mama, I’m here for the food, not for matchmaking.

Mrs. Okeke: (Ignoring her) Ah, here he is! Adaora, meet Nnamdi. He’s an engineer, just like your father. Very respectable.

(Nnamdi, a well-dressed young man, steps forward and greets Adaora with a warm smile.)

Nnamdi: It’s a pleasure to finally meet you, Adaora. I’ve heard so much about you.

Adaora: (Forcing a polite smile) Likewise, Nnamdi. Excuse me for a moment, I just need to say hello to my sister.

(Adaora quickly excuses herself and walks over to Chidinma, who is sitting on a bench, watching the scene with amusement.)

Chidinma: (Grinning) Mama is relentless, isn’t she?

Adaora: (Sighing) If only she was as interested in my work as she is in my love life.

Chidinma: Don’t worry, Ada. You’re doing what you love, and that’s what matters. Besides, it’s not like you don’t have options.

Adaora: Options that involve settling down and giving up everything I’ve worked for. I don’t think I’m ready for that.

Chidinma: (Playfully nudging her) You’ll figure it out. And when you do, I’ll be here to back you up, just like always.

(Adaora smiles at her sister, feeling a little more at ease. The two share a moment of understanding before Chidinma pulls her into a conversation about fashion, shifting the focus away from suitors and onto something Adaora actually cares about.)

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Scene 3: A Café – Morning

(The next scene opens in a trendy Lagos café. Adaora and Charles are sitting at a corner table, discussing an upcoming fashion project. Charles is dressed casually, with an air of quiet confidence. He listens intently as Adaora excitedly talks about her designs.)

Adaora: So, I’ve been thinking about incorporating more traditional fabrics into my new line, something that blends modern cuts with Nigerian heritage. What do you think?

Charles: (Nodding approvingly) I think it’s brilliant. You have a knack for merging the old with the new. It’s what makes your designs stand out.

Adaora: Thanks, Charles. I’ve been working on the sketches non-stop. I really want this collection to make a statement.

Charles: It will, Adaora. And I have a few connections who might be interested in showcasing your work. I can introduce you, if you’re up for it.

Adaora: (Surprised and pleased) Really? That would be amazing!

Charles: Absolutely. You have the talent, Ada. You just need the right platform.

(There’s a moment of silence as Adaora looks at Charles with genuine appreciation. He’s always been there to support her, though she’s never really seen him as more than a friend. Charles, on the other hand, watches her with a mix of admiration and something deeper, though he keeps it to himself.)

Adaora: (Smiling warmly) You’re a great friend, Charles. I don’t know what I’d do without you.

Charles: (Smiling back, hiding his true feelings) I’m just glad to be part of your journey.

Act 2: Conflict

Scene 4: Adaora’s Studio – Afternoon

(The scene opens with Adaora working in her studio. She’s focused on a new design when her phone rings. The caller ID shows it’s Chidinma.)

Adaora: (Answers the phone, smiling) Hey, Chidi! What’s up?

Chidinma (Voiceover): You won’t believe who I just ran into at the supermarket!

Adaora: Who?

Chidinma (Voiceover): Chike! He’s back from the States! He was asking about you.

Adaora: (Surprised) Chike? Wow, it’s been ages. How is he?

Chidinma (Voiceover): He looks good, Ada. And he’s interested in catching up. I gave him your number, hope you don’t mind.

Adaora: (Nervous but curious) No, I don’t mind. It’ll be nice to see him again.

Chidinma (Voiceover): Trust me, you’ll want to see him. Anyway, I have to go, but just thought I’d let you know. Bye!

Adaora: Thanks, Chi chi. Talk to you later.

(Adaora hangs up, her mind racing. She hasn’t thought about Chike in years, but the idea of reconnecting with him stirs something in her. She’s pulled out of her thoughts by a knock at the door. It’s Charles, holding two cups of coffee.)

Charles: Thought you could use a break. I brought your favorite.

Adaora: (Grinning as she takes the coffee) You’re a lifesaver, as always.

Charles: Anything for the hardest-working designer in Lagos. How’s the new collection coming along?

Adaora: Slowly but surely. I’m trying to get everything perfect before the big launch.

Charles: You will. I’ve seen what you can do when you set your mind to it.

(Adaora smiles at Charles, appreciating his constant support. There’s a comfortable silence as they sip their coffee, but Adaora’s thoughts keep drifting back to Chike.)

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Scene 5: A Trendy Restaurant – Evening

(The camera transitions to an upscale Lagos restaurant. Adaora walks in, looking around until she spots Chike sitting at a table near the window. He stands up when he sees her, flashing a charming smile. Chike is dressed sharply, exuding confidence.)

Chike: Adaora! It’s so good to see you.

Adaora: (Smiling warmly as they hug) Chike, it’s been too long. How have you been?

Chike: (Laughs) Busy, but in a good way. The States were great, but nothing beats home. And look at you, Miss Fashion Designer! I’ve been hearing amazing things about your work.

Adaora: (Modestly) I’m just trying to make my mark.

Chike: Well, from what I hear, you’re doing more than that. I’d love to see your designs sometime. Maybe I could help? I’ve got a few connections that could help you take things to the next level.

Adaora: (Intrigued) Really? That sounds incredible, Chike.

Chike: Absolutely. Let’s make it happen.

(The conversation flows easily as they catch up on old times. Adaora finds herself drawn to Chike’s charisma and his apparent interest in her work. He’s full of ideas and offers to introduce her to some influential people in the fashion industry.)

Chike: You know, Adaora, you’ve always been talented. I’ve watched you grow from that little girl who used to sketch on napkins to this amazing designer. I want to help you succeed.

Adaora: (Touched by his words) Thanks, Chike. That means a lot coming from you.

Chike: (Leaning in slightly, his voice sincere) I mean it, Adaora. I’ve always believed in you.

(Adaora blushes slightly, feeling a mix of emotions. The scene ends with them making plans to meet again, and Adaora leaving the restaurant with a renewed sense of excitement about her future.)

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Scene 6: Adaora’s Studio – Late Night

(Adaora is back in her studio, sketching late into the night. Her phone buzzes with a message from Chike, reminding her of their upcoming meeting with some industry insiders. She smiles at the message, feeling a sense of hope and validation. Charles arrives, carrying a box of fabric samples.)

Charles: Burning the midnight oil again, I see.

Adaora: You know me, Charles. No rest for the determined.

Charles: (Noticing her distracted look) You seem... different tonight. Something on your mind?

Adaora: (Pauses, then smiles) I met up with an old friend, Chike. He’s back from the States and he’s offered to help me with some connections in the industry.

Charles: (A little surprised, but supportive) That’s great, Adaora. Just... be careful. Sometimes people make promises they can’t keep.

Adaora: (Nods, still smiling) I know, but I trust Chike. He seems genuine.

Charles: (Quietly) I’m sure he does.

(Charles looks away, hiding the slight disappointment in his eyes. Adaora doesn’t notice, too wrapped up in her thoughts about Chike and the possibilities ahead.)

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Scene 7: Fashion Event – Afternoon

(The scene shifts to a high-profile fashion event in Lagos. Models are walking down the runway, showcasing the latest designs. Adaora is mingling with other designers and industry figures when she’s approached by a well-known fashion editor.)

Editor: Adaora Okeke, right? I’ve been following your work. Very impressive. We’d love to feature you in our next issue.

Adaora: (Surprised and thrilled) That would be amazing! Thank you so much!

Editor: We’ll be in touch soon. Keep up the great work.

(Adaora is on cloud nine as she continues to network, unaware that Charles is nearby, watching her with a mix of pride and longing. Chike joins her a moment later, smiling broadly.)

Chike: Looks like things are happening for you, Adaora. I told you I’d help.

Adaora: (Beaming) That was you? I can’t believe it’s all coming together. Thank you, Chike. I couldn’t have done this without you.

Chike: (Laughs) Just doing my part. You deserve it.

(The scene fades out with Adaora feeling on top of the world, completely unaware that it wasn’t Chike who pulled the strings behind the scenes.)

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Scene 8: Adaora’s Studio – A Few Days Later

(Adaora is at her studio, reviewing some interview requests and magazine features. She’s feeling overwhelmed but happy when Chike walks in unannounced.)

Chike: Adaora! I’ve been thinking... we should celebrate all your recent success. How about dinner tonight? Just the two of us.

Adaora: (Pauses, then nods) Sure, that sounds nice.

Chike: Great! I’ll pick you up at eight.

(As Chike leaves, Charles enters, holding a portfolio of designs. He notices Adaora’s pensive expression.)

Charles: Everything okay?

Adaora: Yeah, just... a lot happening all at once. But I’m grateful.

Charles: You should be. You’ve earned it.

(Charles hands her the portfolio, and as Adaora flips through the designs, she notices a letter from the editor of the magazine that featured her. The letter mentions Charles as the person who recommended her for the feature.)

Adaora: (Stunned, looking up at Charles) Charles... this letter says you recommended me for the feature.

Charles: (Trying to play it off) It was nothing, really. You deserved the spotlight.

Adaora: (Her voice faltering) But I thought... I thought it was Chike who helped me.

Charles: (Softly) Chike might have made promises, but I knew you needed more than that. I wanted to make sure you got the recognition you’ve worked so hard for.

(Adaora is speechless, the realization hitting her hard. She feels a mix of gratitude and guilt for not recognizing Charles’s quiet support all along.)

Adaora: Charles, I... I didn’t know.

Charles: (Smiling gently) It’s okay, Ada. I’ve always believed in you. That’s what friends do, right?

*(The scene ends with Adaora looking at Charles, finally seeing him in a new light. Her feelings are complicated, but the seeds of something deeper have been planted.)

Act 3: Climax

Scene 9: Adaora’s Apartment – Evening

(The scene opens with Adaora in her apartment, getting ready for her dinner date with Chike. She’s standing in front of a mirror, but her mind is elsewhere. The realization about Charles’s role in her recent success weighs heavily on her. As she finishes getting ready, there’s a knock on the door. It’s Chike, dressed sharply and smiling confidently.)

Chike: (Kissing her on the cheek) You look beautiful, Adaora. Ready to go?

Adaora: (Forcing a smile) Thanks, Chike. I’ve been thinking... maybe we should stay in tonight. There’s something I want to talk about.

Chike: (A bit surprised but agreeable) Sure, whatever you want. What’s on your mind?

(They move to the living room, where Adaora takes a deep breath before speaking.)

Adaora: Chike, I’ve really enjoyed spending time with you. But I need to be honest—I’ve been feeling conflicted.

Chike: (Concerned, but trying to maintain his composure) Conflicted about what?

Adaora: About us... and about my work. When you offered to help with my career, I was so grateful. I thought you really understood my passion. But lately, I’ve started to feel like... maybe we’re not on the same page.

Chike: (A bit defensive) What do you mean? I’ve been supporting you every step of the way.

Adaora: (Gently) I know you’ve tried, Chike. But I’ve realized that the support I needed wasn’t just about connections or opportunities. It was about someone who truly believes in my work, even when it’s tough, even when I doubt myself.

Chike: (Frustrated) Adaora, I’ve done everything I could to help you. What more do you want from me?

Adaora: (Softly) I want someone who sees me, Chike. Not just what I can achieve. I thought that was you, but now I know... it was Charles.

(Chike is taken aback, his expression hardening as he realizes what she’s saying.)

Chike: Charles? The guy who’s always hanging around, pretending to be just a friend?

Adaora: (Firmly) He is my friend. But he’s also the one who’s been there for me, quietly supporting me without expecting anything in return. He believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself.

Chike: (Angrily) So what are you saying, Adaora? That it’s over between us?

Adaora: (Nods, her voice steady) Yes, Chike. I’m sorry, but I can’t continue this. I need to focus on my work, and on being true to myself.

Chike: (Stands up, frustrated) Fine. But don’t come crying to me when this so-called friend of yours lets you down.

(Chike leaves, slamming the door behind him. Adaora sits back, feeling a mixture of relief and sadness. She knows she made the right decision, but it doesn’t make it any easier.)

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Act 4: Resolution

Scene 10: Charles’s Studio – The Next Day

(The next day, Adaora arrives at Charles’s studio. It’s a small, well-organized space filled with sketches, fabric rolls, and completed designs. Charles is working on a new piece when Adaora walks in. He looks up, surprised but happy to see her.)

Charles: Adaora, what a surprise. Is everything okay?

Adaora: (Nervous but determined) I broke up with Chike last night.

Charles: (Pauses, then carefully) I’m sorry to hear that. Are you okay?

Adaora: (Nods) I am. I needed to do it. I’ve been thinking a lot about everything... about us.

(Charles looks at her, unsure of what to say, but Adaora steps closer, her voice sincere.)

Adaora: Charles, I owe you an apology. I was so caught up in what I thought I needed that I didn’t see what was right in front of me. You’ve been there for me, supporting me without asking for anything in return. And I... I didn’t appreciate that enough.

Charles: (Softly) You don’t have to apologize, Adaora. I’ve always believed in you, that’s all.

Adaora: (Taking his hand, looking into his eyes) But it’s more than that, Charles. I see that now. You’re not just a friend. You’re someone who understands me in a way no one else does. And I’ve been blind to that.

(There’s a moment of silence as they look at each other, the unspoken feelings finally coming to the surface. Charles squeezes her hand gently.)

Charles: Adaora, I’ve felt this way for a long time. But I didn’t want to push you, especially when I knew how much your work meant to you. I just wanted to see you happy.

Adaora: (Smiling through tears) You do make me happy, Charles. And I want to see where this goes... if you’re willing to give it a chance.

Charles: (Smiling warmly) I’ve been waiting for this moment, Adaora. Of course, I’m willing.

*(They share a tender embrace, the weight of the past few weeks lifting off their shoulders. The scene ends with them holding each other, the future looking brighter for both their relationship and their careers.)

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Scene 11: Fashion Show – A Few Months Later

(The final scene takes place at a large fashion show in Lagos. Adaora’s new collection is being showcased, and the event is a huge success. Models walk down the runway wearing her designs, the audience captivated by her work. Backstage, Adaora watches with pride, knowing that all her hard work has paid off.)

(Charles walks up behind her, putting a reassuring hand on her shoulder.)

Charles: You did it, Adaora. This is all you.

Adaora: (Turning to him, smiling) We did it, Charles. I couldn’t have done this without you.

Charles: (Leaning in, whispering) I’m just glad to be part of your story.

*(We hear loud applause as Adaora and Charles walk out together, ready to face whatever the future holds. The camera pans out to show the crowd, the lights, and the buzz of the event, symbolizing the bright future ahead for Adaora and Charles, both in love and in their careers.)

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End of Script