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BRAVEHEART script analysis

BRAVEHEART script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

Braveheart follows William Wallace’s transformation from a grieving son and husband to Scotland’s legendary liberator. After discovering the atrocity against his family, Wallace grapples with revenge before embracing a larger cause. He achieves early victories at Stirling Bridge but faces betrayal and capture, only to inspire continued resistance after his execution.

75 Save the Cat fit score 82% analysis confidence / 54 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

65%

Introduces the story of William Wallace against the backdrop of Scottish oppression.

I will tell you of William Wallace.
2

Theme Stated

Scene 2 / Page 2 / 5% target

70%

Hints that history is written by victors, foreshadowing Wallace’s fight for his people’s story.

Historians from England will say I am a liar. But history is written by those who have hung...
3

Set-Up

Scenes 1-5 / Pages 1-5 / 10% target

75%

Establishes Wallace’s family life, the Scottish clans, and the English truce.

4

Catalyst

Scene 5 / Page 5 / 12% target

80%

Wallace discovers the hanged Scottish nobles, igniting his personal vendetta.

William! Get out of here!
5

Debate

Scene 7 / Page 7 / 20% target

68%

Wallace tests his strength and reputation at the village contest, questioning his path forward.

I hit it in the head. With a rock.
6

Break into Two

Scene 14 / Page 14 / 25% target

77%

Wallace commits to open warfare by attacking English soldiers in Lanark.

7

B Story

Scene 8 / Page 8 / 30% target

72%

Rekindles Wallace’s relationship with Marion, grounding his motivations in love.

Your father doesn't like me, does he?
8

Fun and Games

Scene 20 / Page 20 / 40% target

75%

Wallace and his companions ambush English patrols, building camaraderie and guerrilla success.

The Almighty says for you to give His regards to the Devil.
9

Midpoint

Scene 24 / Page 24 / 50% target

85%

The triumphant Battle of Stirling Bridge marks a major victory and high point for Wallace.

Steady! Hold... hold... NOW!
10

Bad Guys Close In

Scene 34 / Page 34 / 65% target

78%

English forces counterattack and orders arrive to capture Wallace alive.

Use the reinforcements! But take Wallace alive!
11

All Is Lost

Scene 36 / Page 36 / 75% target

80%

Wallace, disillusioned with the nobles, returns his title and withdraws.

12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 37 / Page 37 / 80% target

74%

Wallace mourns Marion’s grave in the rain, questioning the cost of his cause.

13

Break into Three

Scene 43 / Page 43 / 85% target

70%

A new alliance forms when Wallace and Princess Isabella meet, giving him renewed purpose.

I have taken vows. More than one. I've vowed faithfulness to my husband, and sworn to give him...
14

Finale

Scene 53 / Page 53 / 95% target

88%

Wallace’s public execution serves as the emotional climax, cementing his martyrdom.

That... will... clear your sinuses.
15

Final Image

Scene 54 / Page 54 / 99% target

82%

Robert the Bruce leads the Scots at Bannockburn, inspired by Wallace’s sacrifice.

You have bled with Wallace! Now bleed with me!