Save the Cat rankings

A STAR IS BORN script analysis

A STAR IS BORN script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

A seasoned star meets a talented singer and helps launch her career while battling his own demons. Their romance and professional partnership propel them to success, but fame and addiction strain their relationship. Tragedy strikes, forcing the heroine to honor her mentor’s legacy.

70 Save the Cat fit score 30% analysis confidence / 93 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

30%

Introduces Norman Maine as a major performer and his world of celebrity.

2

Theme Stated

Scene 16 / Page 16 / 5% target

30%

Norman tells Esther “You’re too good not to try again,” stating the theme of taking risks and pursuing dreams.

You're too good not to try again.
3

Set-Up

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

30%

Establishes Norman’s career struggles, George’s role as manager, and Esther’s life before meeting him.

4

Catalyst

Scene 11 / Page 11 / 12% target

30%

Norman first encounters Esther and is struck by her talent.

Your voice is... incredible. Do you sing anywhere around town?
5

Debate

Scene 21 / Page 21 / 20% target

30%

Esther doubts her ability to return to music despite Norman’s encouragement.

I don't know if I can do it.
6

Break into Two

Scene 24 / Page 24 / 25% target

30%

They begin collaborating seriously by recording her song in Norman’s studio.

7

B Story

Scenes 11-15 / Pages 11-15 / 30% target

30%

Romance between Norman and Esther develops alongside her career launch.

8

Fun and Games

Scenes 25-30 / Pages 25-30 / 40% target

30%

Includes intimate lake swim, festival performance, label meetings, and negotiation of Esther’s deal.

9

Midpoint

Scene 26 / Page 26 / 50% target

30%

Esther’s triumphant performance at Music Midtown marks a false victory and shifts stakes.

10

Bad Guys Close In

Scenes 33-36 / Pages 33-36 / 65% target

30%

Tension builds as D’Aries exerts control over Esther and Norman’s career and personal life unravels.

11

All Is Lost

Scene 40 / Page 40 / 75% target

30%

George quits managing Norman, isolating him at his lowest point.

12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scenes 47-49 / Pages 47-49 / 80% target

30%

Norman burns his writing in despair, symbolizing rock bottom.

13

Break into Three

Scenes 71-74 / Pages 71-74 / 85% target

30%

After rehab and Esther secretly paying his debts, Norman finds hope to start anew.

I didn't do it for you... I did it for us.
14

Finale

Scenes 91-93 / Pages 91-93 / 95% target

30%

Esther honors Norman by performing his song at Madison Square Garden, completing her arc.

15

Final Image

Scene 93 / Page 93 / 99% target

30%

Esther takes the stage with Norman’s song, reflecting his lasting influence.