Save the Cat rankings

22 JUMP STREET script analysis

22 JUMP STREET script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

Undercover cops Schmidt and Jenko are sent to college to infiltrate a drug ring. They struggle with the campus culture while growing closer to their targets and each other. After a wild party sequence and a surprise romantic subplot, they face a dangerous drug deal gone wrong, leading to a final high-stakes rescue and reconciliation back at Jump Street.

82 Save the Cat fit score 78% analysis confidence / 23 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

60%

Introduces the yin-yang metaphor that frames the film’s buddy-cop imbalance.

2

Theme Stated

Scene 2 / 5% target

70%

Jenko notes they’re “not back in high school,” hinting at maturity and partnership themes.

At least we’re not back in high school.
3

Set-Up

Scenes 1-3 / Pages 1-3 / 10% target

75%

We meet Schmidt and Jenko, learn they’re inexperienced in college, and get their mission briefing.

4

Catalyst

Scene 6 / 12% target

72%

Their first attempt to buy drugs goes awry when a parrot attack exposes them to the target’s suspicion.

Let’s make this quick. You got the stuff?
5

Debate

Scene 12 / 20% target

68%

In the dorm room, they question their approach and whether they can pull off the undercover assignment.

All the more reason you need to take a step back. He’s talking about getting me in with...
6

Break into Two

Scene 7 / 25% target

80%

They commit to the college life by attending the Zeta party to get closer to suspects.

You really love those shorts.
7

B Story

Scene 9 / 30% target

77%

Schmidt’s flirtation with Maya introduces the romantic subplot that supports his personal growth.

8

Fun and Games

Scenes 7-10 / 40% target

75%

The duo navigates frat parties, drug deals, and bonding on the football field, showcasing the “fun” of their new roles.

9

Midpoint

Scene 11 / 50% target

80%

Schmidt wakes up with Maya and another girl, marking a false victory and complication in his relationship.

Did we have sex last night!? I think we had sex last night!
10

Bad Guys Close In

Scene 18 / 65% target

78%

Their boat assault leads to a dangerous shootout and The Ghost’s escape, raising stakes.

You guys are dealers?
11

All Is Lost

Scene 18 / 75% target

70%

The Ghost and Mercedes flee, leaving Schmidt and Jenko empty-handed and in trouble.

12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 16 / 80% target

74%

Maya confronts Schmidt about their night, and he realizes personal mistakes jeopardize the case.

Well, when we got back to my room you were really drunk...
13

Break into Three

Scene 21 / 85% target

82%

After regrouping, they storm the hot air balloon to stop The Ghost, committing to the final plan.

Cargo shorts, motherfucker.
14

Finale

Scenes 19-21 / 95% target

80%

A water chase, balloon rescue, and capture of The Ghost wrap up the mission and resolve subplots.

15

Final Image

Scene 23 / 99% target

76%

Back at HQ, they resume lectures with a newfound respect and improved partnership.

If I’d known this was your condition for staying partners I never would have agreed to it.