Save the Cat rankings

ABSOLUTE POWER script analysis

ABSOLUTE POWER script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

Burglar Luther Whitney is introduced as a skilled yet solitary thief whose next heist entangles him in a deadly cover-up at a powerful political family’s mansion. As he survives witnessing a murder, the stakes escalate, forcing him into a cat-and-mouse game with the Secret Service and ultimately leading to a personal redemption arc.

70 Save the Cat fit score 78% analysis confidence / 152 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

85%

Introduces Luther quietly sketching in the museum, establishing his solitary, observant nature.

2

Theme Stated

Scene 90 / 5% target

80%

Seth tells Luther “Boy, you must be smart,” hinting at themes of perception and justice.

Boy, you must be smart.
3

Set-Up

Scenes 2-9 / 10% target

82%

We follow Luther’s routine—visiting Red’s bar, returning home, and planning a future job—establishing his world and skills.

4

Catalyst

Scenes 10-13 / 12% target

80%

Luther arrives and breaks into the Sullivan mansion, setting the inciting heist in motion.

5

Debate

Scenes 31-34 / 20% target

78%

Inside the vault, Luther hesitates upon hearing voices, questioning whether to flee or continue.

6

Break into Two

Scene 39 / 25% target

80%

Luther’s hiding spot is revealed when Christy says “It’s okay… relax,” and he must commit to staying.

It's okay -- I told him I was sick -- anyway, he's gone -- relax...
7

B Story

Scenes 84-85 / 30% target

75%

Walter Sullivan’s scenes with McCarty introduce the political subplot and the deeper conspiracy.

The chef makes them especially for me -- I promise you they're sinful.
8

Fun and Games

Scenes 91-92 / 40% target

80%

Luther and Seth banter over coffee and at the diner, showcasing the cat-and-mouse dynamic.

So, do you want my confession now or after coffee?
9

Midpoint

Scenes 114-115 / 50% target

82%

The assassination attempt at Cafe Alonzo—Luther narrowly escapes—shifts from playful to life-and-death stakes.

10

Bad Guys Close In

Scene 130 / 65% target

80%

In the Oval Office, Richmond orders Kate’s elimination, tightening the noose around Luther and Kate.

Any idea who could have forged it?
11

All Is Lost

Scene 138 / 75% target

85%

Luther faces Collin aiming to kill Kate in the hospital—his worst fears realized.

Scream. Go on. Which do you want most, for me to kill you or life in jail forever?
12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 147 / 80% target

78%

Amid news of the President’s death, Luther sits alone in the hospital reception, despairing.

... you're still here...?
13

Break into Three

Scenes 140-141 / 85% target

80%

Luther confronts Sullivan in the limo and then accompanies him to the White House gate, resolving to expose the truth.

I'm your replacement driver for the evening, sir. Don't worry, Tommy's fine.
14

Finale

Scenes 144-146 / 95% target

80%

Seth arrests Russell, Luther races to the hospital amid reports of the President’s death, executing the final plan against the conspiracy.

15

Final Image

Scene 152 / 99% target

85%

Luther sketching Kate at dawn mirrors the opening image, now transformed by his journey and connection to her.