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American Hustle script analysis

American Hustle script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

American Hustle follows con artist Irving Rosenfeld as he is coerced by FBI agent Richie Dimaso into a complex sting operation targeting corrupt politicians and mobsters. Alongside his partner Sydney, Irving navigates romantic and criminal entanglements, suffers personal betrayals, and ultimately must outwit both his FBI handlers and his own inner demons. The story culminates in a high-stakes finale where loyalties are tested and Irving fights for redemption.

65 Save the Cat fit score 12% analysis confidence / 66 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

10%

Irving’s meticulous combover in the hotel window establishes his world of crafted appearances.

2

Theme Stated

Scene 4 / Page 1 / 5% target

11%

Irving reflects that “we talk ourselves into things,” stating the theme of self-deception.

We talk ourselves into things. We sell ourselves things we maybe don't even need or want by dressing...
3

Set-Up

Scenes 2-7 / Pages 1-2 / 10% target

10%

We meet Irving, Sydney, Rosalyn and Richie, see his family life and initial con dynamics.

The shittiest suite at the Plaza Hotel.
4

Catalyst

Scene 10 / Page 2 / 12% target

10%

Richie offers Irving an FBI deal to catch major fraudsters, forcing him into the central conflict.

I want four people that do what you do. Fraudulent investments. Fake certificates of deposit. Stolen art, fake...
5

Debate

Scene 11 / Page 2 / 20% target

10%

Irving and Sydney argue over whether to take the dangerous FBI sting.

I'm gonna do these four busts, these four cons, to get us out of this. Not just me,...
6

Break into Two

Scene 12 / Page 2 / 25% target

10%

They commit to the con, planning the fake Sheikh sting.

It's a fake. People believe what they want to believe. Cause the guy who made this was so...
7

B Story

Scene 9 / Page 2 / 30% target

10%

Richie manipulates Sydney in her cell, deepening her personal arc.

I know you think Irv loves you. I know you think you know him -- that he sees...
8

Fun and Games

Scenes 12-17 / Pages 2-3 / 40% target

10%

The team executes cons, tests their partnership, and tensions rise.

9

Midpoint

Scene 33 / Page 3 / 50% target

10%

At the mob dinner, the stakes become life-and-death with mafioso Victor Tellegio.

There are some gentlemen over there at the bar. That's a hundred and thirty years sitting there --...
10

Bad Guys Close In

Scene 38 / Page 4 / 65% target

10%

Sydney’s true identity is revealed, shattering trust in the team.

My name is Sydney Prosser, and I'm from Albuquerque, New Mexico. I'm not Edith Greensly. There is no...
11

All Is Lost

Scene 48 / Page 5 / 75% target

10%

Irving and Rosalyn’s marriage explodes, leaving him emotionally devastated.

ARE YOU HAPPY NOW? BECAUSE HE IS TRYING TO KILL ME!
12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 62 / Page 5 / 80% target

10%

After confessing to Carmine, Irving staggers out broken, at his lowest.

13

Break into Three

Scene 64 / Page 6 / 85% target

10%

Irving and Sydney confront the FBI about missing money, ready to fight back.

How do we know that YOU don't have the money?
14

Finale

Scene 61 / Page 6 / 95% target

10%

Irving’s confession to Carmine and the subsequent fallout resolve the emotional and con arcs.

You said that was the only way, Irv. You chased me, remember?
15

Final Image

Scene 66 / Page 6 / 99% target

10%

In the art gallery, Irving and Sydney admire art—echoing the opening but showing personal growth.