Save the Cat rankings

Billy Batson and the Legend of Shazam! script analysis

Billy Batson and the Legend of Shazam! script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

Billy Batson, an orphaned street kid, is unexpectedly chosen by the wizard Shazam to become the superhero Marvel. He struggles to master his powers with friend Freddy’s help while uncovering Black Adam’s dark history. As threats escalate, Billy must embrace his destiny to save both his new family and the world. This arc follows the Save the Cat structure by establishing stakes, deepening character bonds, and building to a decisive showdown.

75 Save the Cat fit score 70% analysis confidence / 20 parsed scenes

Save the Cat is referenced as a story-analysis framework. SlugDB is not affiliated with Save the Cat or its rights holders.

1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

80%

Introduces a harsh world where power kills indiscriminately, mirroring Billy’s rough street life.

Whose caravan is this?
2

Theme Stated

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 5% target

60%

Black Adam’s line about shared values hints power must protect, not destroy.

We have much in common. We both want to protect our people. Our values.
3

Set-Up

Scenes 2-3 / Pages 1-3 / 10% target

75%

We meet Billy’s world—his sharp wit, friendship with Freddy, and mundane struggles at the comic shop.

4

Catalyst

Scene 5 / Page 4 / 12% target

85%

The dying wizard names Billy the new champion, thrusting him into heroism.

You are the new champion, Billy Batson.
5

Debate

Scenes 6-9 / Pages 4-6 / 20% target

70%

Billy as Marvel grapples with identity, responsibilities, and the tension of secret school life.

How do I know if I’m me?
6

Break into Two

Scene 5 / Page 4 / 25% target

65%

Billy fully commits by accepting his superhero role on the train to the Rock of Eternity.

7

B Story

Scene 7 / Page 5 / 30% target

75%

Freddy helps Marvel understand his new identity, forming their central friendship arc.

I dunno. What’s your favorite ice cream?
8

Fun and Games

Scenes 8-12 / Pages 6-9 / 40% target

70%

Training montages and humorous school visits showcase Billy’s power-play and teen-life mix.

Superheroes don’t go to school.
9

Midpoint

Scene 15 / Page 11 / 50% target

80%

Ice projectiles strike the Capitol, raising stakes: it’s no longer a game.

10

Bad Guys Close In

Scene 16 / Page 12 / 65% target

75%

Black Adam confronts and challenges Marvel, testing both his power and resolve.

You’re alone, aren’t you? That’s why the wizard picked you.
11

All Is Lost

Scene 14 / Page 10 / 75% target

70%

Freddy’s removal by social services represents the lowest, most personal defeat.

12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 17 / Page 12 / 80% target

80%

Billy’s outburst at Dale and Kitty shows his isolation and fear before regrouping.

Why do you care?! You’re not my parents. I am nothing to you. I am just a check...
13

Break into Three

Scene 19 / Page 13 / 85% target

75%

Billy takes decisive action, sending loved ones away and rallying to recover the scarab.

Dale, Kitty, I need you to drive Freddy and Caitlin to the university. Get the scarab back, whatever...
14

Finale

Scene 20 / Page 14 / 95% target

70%

Confrontation with Maya and the statues reveals Black Adam’s tragic motive, setting the stage for resolution.

To get back to his family. His time.
15

Final Image

Scene 20 / Page 14 / 99% target

65%

Billy’s anguished cry amid the Rock of Eternity monuments contrasts the opening violence with personal stakes.

Shut up! Shut up shut up SHUT UP!