Save the Cat rankings

Cedar Rapids script analysis

Cedar Rapids script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

Tim Lippe, an insurance agent from Wisconsin, is thrust into the world of sales conventions after his mentor’s death. Reluctantly attending the ASMI Midwest convention in Cedar Rapids, he faces personal and professional hurdles, finds unexpected friendship and a romantic spark with Joan, and ultimately discovers his authentic self. Through a chaotic scavenger hunt, corporate intrigue, and a night of low points, Tim breaks through his insecurities and delivers a heartfelt presentation. The film closes with Tim embracing his new path and celebrating with his friends.

80 Save the Cat fit score 30% analysis confidence / 94 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

50%

Introduces Tim’s normal world at Northlands Insurance celebrating a commercial success.

The Brown River Valley: It's where we work. It's where we play. It's where we live. But even...
2

Theme Stated

Scene 11 / Page 2 / 5% target

50%

Bill hints that Tim must step up and deliver Roger’s legacy, foreshadowing growth.

I'm not asking you to fill Roger Lemke's shoes. Not gonna happen. I'm asking you to deliver his...
3

Set-Up

Scenes 3-5 / Pages 1-2 / 10% target

40%

Shows Tim’s quiet domestic life and relationship with Millie, establishing what he stands to lose.

4

Catalyst

Scene 9 / Page 2 / 12% target

60%

Tim receives the late-night call informing him of Roger’s death, upending his world.

5

Debate

Scene 11 / Page 2 / 20% target

50%

Tim wrestles with taking on Roger’s role at the ASMI convention, doubting his ability.

6

Break into Two

Scene 12 / Page 2 / 25% target

60%

Tim commits by telling Millie he’s going to Cedar Rapids, crossing into a new world.

7

B Story

Scene 27 / Page 5 / 30% target

60%

Introduces Joan at the fitness center—their relationship becomes his emotional throughline.

You were checking me out.
8

Fun and Games

Scene 43 / Page 9 / 40% target

50%

Tim and Joan find their first scavenger hunt clue, showcasing the convention’s lighter competition.

Check it out-- Planet X!
9

Midpoint

Scene 46 / Page 10 / 50% target

50%

The ice-climbing silo challenge raises the stakes; failure feels imminent.

OK gang, that was Rick Martini with the National Chapter. Here's the deal. Since no one could do...
10

Bad Guys Close In

Scene 62 / Page 14 / 65% target

60%

Orin’s corrupt proposal pressures Tim to compromise his integrity.

One thing Roger Lemke knew, Tim? He knew that when you get all dolled up, go to the...
11

All Is Lost

Scene 63 / Page 14 / 75% target

60%

After confronting Dean, Tim, disillusioned, abandons the convention and his mission.

12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 70 / Page 16 / 80% target

50%

Tim hits rock bottom getting high at the farmhouse, feeling he’s lost everything.

13

Break into Three

Scene 80 / Page 17 / 85% target

50%

With help from friends in the junior suite, Tim regains resolve to do the right thing.

14

Finale

Scene 86 / Page 18 / 95% target

60%

Tim and Ronald deliver their presentations, Tim improvising and succeeding despite chaos.

Thank you. I'm Tim Lippe. Hog farm risk mitigation... What is...?
15

Final Image

Scene 94 / Page 21 / 99% target

50%

Years later, Tim celebrates his new commercial in a Canadian cabin, closing the arc.

What? It represented hope...