Save the Cat rankings

Central Intelligence script analysis

Central Intelligence script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

Ordinary accountant Kevin is stuck in a mundane life until reconnecting with former classmate Bob on Facebook propels him into espionage. As secrets unravel, Kevin must navigate CIA intrigue and personal stakes to emerge transformed.

75 Save the Cat fit score 35% analysis confidence / 17 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

40%

Introduces a sudden embassy bomb blast, establishing tone of danger.

2

Theme Stated

Scene 2 / Page 1 / 5% target

30%

Kevin’s discussion with Maggie about routine hints at themes of stepping out of comfort zone.

3

Set-Up

Scene 3 / Pages 1-2 / 10% target

50%

Kevin’s confrontation with neighbor Paul shows his passive nature and triggers desire for change.

Kevin? Sorry to bother to you. I’ve asked you three times now to cut those branches back a...
4

Catalyst

Scene 6 / Page 2 / 12% target

45%

Kevin’s unexpected Facebook friend request from Bob Steele launches the adventure.

Hey! Kevbo! It’s me, Bob Steele! From Central High! I went by Robby then. I changed my last...
5

Debate

Scene 5 / Pages 2-3 / 20% target

40%

Kevin is reprimanded at work, debating whether to embrace excitement or stay safe.

6

Break into Two

Scene 7 / Page 3 / 25% target

45%

Kevin meets Bob at the bar, crossing into Bob’s dangerous CIA world.

Well, replace “Post Office” with “CIA” and “clerk” with “operative.”
7

B Story

Scene 8 / Pages 3-4 / 30% target

30%

Kevin bonds with Narjeet at work, highlighting loyalty and friendship subplot.

8

Fun and Games

Scene 9 / Page 4 / 40% target

35%

Kevin seeks Vance’s help, exploring spy intrigue in workplace setting.

Vance? Can you meet me at Manny’s ASAP? I need to talk.
9

Midpoint

Scene 10 / Pages 4-5 / 50% target

40%

In Manny’s Deli, the stakes rise as Harris interrogates Kevin about Bob.

Where’s your friend?
10

Bad Guys Close In

Scene 11 / Pages 5-6 / 65% target

50%

Mossad agents attack, killing Harris and putting Bob in deadly peril.

They’re Iranians. It’s over.
11

All Is Lost

Scene 12 / Page 6 / 75% target

45%

Bob slips away in an ambulance, handing Kevin a flash drive, appearing betrayed.

I want you to know you’re the best friend I’ve ever had.
12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 13 / Pages 6-7 / 80% target

35%

Kevin is interrogated by the CIA, feeling guilt and isolation over Bob’s fate.

He never made it to the hospital.
13

Break into Three

Scene 14 / Page 7 / 85% target

30%

CIA agents strategize in the mirrored room, setting up final plan for rescue.

14

Finale

Scene 16 / Page 8 / 95% target

25%

Kevin takes action helping Maggie at the bakery and moves to protect Bob’s intel.

15

Final Image

Scene 17 / Page 8 / 99% target

40%

Bob’s departure from the bakery shows both men changed and friendship intact.