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COMING TO AMERICA script analysis

COMING TO AMERICA script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

Prince Akeem, groom-to-be in the opulent kingdom of Zamunda, rejects an arranged marriage and travels to Queens, New York to find true love. He adopts a new identity, faces culture clashes, and wins Lisa’s heart amid comedic trials. When his royal secret is exposed, he nearly loses her until he renounces his throne and professes his love. They marry back in Zamunda, fulfilling his genuine quest for love.

85 Save the Cat fit score 62% analysis confidence / 28 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

60%

Introduces regal rooster and the kingdom’s opulence, setting the fairy-tale tone.

2

Theme Stated

Scene 4 / Page 4 / 5% target

65%

Akeem declares true love must value the person, not status.

I don't want her to love me because of who I am. I want her to love me...
3

Set-Up

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

60%

Establishes Zamunda’s luxury, Akeem’s sheltered life, and his longing for independence.

4

Catalyst

Scene 6 / Page 6 / 12% target

58%

Akeem meets his arranged bride Imani and realizes marriage won’t bring true love.

5

Debate

Scene 7 / Page 7 / 20% target

60%

He tests Imani’s obedience and doubts the path laid out for him.

6

Break into Two

Scene 8 / Page 8 / 25% target

62%

Akeem leaves Zamunda for America in disguise, embarking on a new world.

7

B Story

Scene 9 / Page 9 / 30% target

64%

Meets Lisa while working at McDowell’s, setting up the romantic storyline.

I am cleaning, Mr. McDowell. I believe a clean environment makes the workers more productive.
8

Fun and Games

Scenes 9-15 / Pages 9-15 / 40% target

60%

Culture-clash humor, dating mishaps, and Akeem’s chivalry build the romance.

9

Midpoint

Scene 15 / Page 15 / 50% target

63%

Akeem heroically stops a robbery, impressing Lisa and raising stakes.

I think it would be wise to put down that weapon.
10

Bad Guys Close In

Scenes 16-17 / Pages 16-17 / 65% target

61%

His father arrives in Queens, hunting for Akeem and threatening his secret.

11

All Is Lost

Scene 24 / Page 24 / 75% target

60%

Mr. McDowell reveals Akeem’s royal status, driving a wedge between him and Lisa.

12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 25 / Page 25 / 80% target

60%

Akeem retreats with Semmi, believing he’s lost Lisa and his purpose.

13

Break into Three

Scene 27 / Page 27 / 85% target

65%

He chases Lisa on the subway and renounces his throne to prove his love.

I renounce my throne!
14

Finale

Scene 28 / Page 28 / 95% target

62%

Akeem and Lisa marry in Zamunda, uniting their worlds and validating his journey.

15

Final Image

Scene 28 / Page 28 / 99% target

60%

Returns to the royal setting, but now with genuine love and unity replacing opulence alone.