Save the Cat rankings

BLACK RAIN script analysis

BLACK RAIN script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

New York detectives Nick and Charlie lose their target to Japanese killers and pursue him to Japan. Amid cultural clashes and aided by local officer Ichiro Matsumoto and Joyce, Nick overcomes setbacks—including deportation and arrest—to finally capture the villain. The story explores loyalty, redemption, and partnership across cultures.

80 Save the Cat fit score 27% analysis confidence / 54 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

20%

Introduces Nick and Charlie in an illicit New York gambling raid, establishing tone and the world they inhabit.

2

Theme Stated

Scene 4 / 5% target

18%

Charlie’s vow highlights the loyalty and respect theme driving Nick’s journey.

You will never ever fuck with my partner again.
3

Set-Up

Scenes 1-3 / Page 1 / 10% target

25%

We meet Nick, Charlie, and their job in New York, confront Cavello, and see Nick beaten, setting stakes and character dynamics.

4

Catalyst

Scene 2 / 12% target

22%

Japanese hitmen kill Cavello, pulling Nick into a cross-cultural chase and raising the central conflict.

5

Debate

Scene 3 / 20% target

20%

Nick questions the risks after being severely beaten, debating whether to continue the pursuit.

6

Break into Two

Scene 4 / 25% target

23%

Nick and Charlie decide to transport Kobayashi to Japan, crossing into Act Two’s new world.

7

B Story

Scene 8 / 30% target

21%

Ichiro Matsumoto’s introduction establishes the relationship that will teach Nick about honor and partnership.

Detective Ichiro Matsumoto. I'm the man you're looking for.
8

Fun and Games

Scene 10 / 40% target

19%

Nick and Ichiro pursue the mystery girl through the neon Shinzoa District, showcasing the fish-out-of-water thrills.

She disappeared... shit!
9

Midpoint

Scene 17 / 50% target

24%

Ohashi orders Nick to leave Japan, escalating stakes: now he fights not just criminals but bureaucracy.

Your visa has expired. Be on a plane in twenty-four hours or you will be deported.
10

Bad Guys Close In

Scene 31 / 65% target

22%

Kobo’s dawn attack on Nick and Joyce ratchets up the danger around the protagonists.

11

All Is Lost

Scene 36 / 75% target

23%

Nick’s arrest on arrival signals his lowest point: cut off from allies and his case.

What the hell are you doing?!
12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 37 / 80% target

20%

In the holding cell, Nick begs Ohashi, feeling defeated and alone.

For God's sake, Ohashi, I need your help. Let me out of here!
13

Break into Three

Scene 42 / 85% target

21%

Ichiro’s arrival at Narita marks the turning point, giving Nick the means to continue.

I'll tell you one thing. You can't solve a thing sitting on your ass.
14

Finale

Scene 49 / 95% target

22%

Nick launches the final raid on Kobo, using all he’s learned to defeat the antagonist.

15

Final Image

Scene 52 / 99% target

19%

Nick and Joyce discuss their future, reflecting how far Nick has come from the opening image.

Can't make you change your mind?