Save the Cat rankings

Despicable Me 2 script analysis

Despicable Me 2 script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

Gru is recruited by the Anti-Villain League to investigate a dangerous new weapon, partnering with agent Lucy Wilde. As they hunt leads—from a cupcake shop to a salsa restaurant—they uncover a surprising betrayal and fight El Macho to rescue his daughters and the minions. Through adventure and danger, Gru discovers the true meaning of family and partnership.

75 Save the Cat fit score 58% analysis confidence / 40 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

60%

The film opens on a high-stakes Arctic heist, establishing tone and action.

2

Theme Stated

Scene 2 / Page 2 / 5% target

55%

Silas Ramsbottom’s briefing hints at trust and teamwork as central themes.

3

Set-Up

Scenes 1-4 / Pages 1-4 / 10% target

62%

We see Gru’s family life, the girls’ birthday, and his complacent villainous routine.

4

Catalyst

Scene 5 / Page 5 / 12% target

66%

Lucy forcibly recruits Gru, upending his routine and forcing him into a new mission.

5

Debate

Scenes 6-7 / Pages 6-7 / 20% target

60%

Gru resists the AVL’s rules and faces Dr. Nefario’s departure, questioning his role.

6

Break into Two

Scene 8 / Page 8 / 25% target

63%

Gru accepts the undercover mission, moving from his villain’s lair into the spy world.

7

B Story

Scene 12 / Page 12 / 30% target

58%

Lucy formally becomes Gru’s partner, launching their relationship arc.

On assignment from Silas. I'm your new partner. Yay!
8

Fun and Games

Scenes 9-14 / Pages 9-14 / 40% target

60%

Montage of undercover antics: cupcake shop, mall chases, meeting suspects.

9

Midpoint

Scene 17 / Page 17 / 50% target

57%

Minions are mysteriously abducted, raising the mission’s stakes and personal cost.

10

Bad Guys Close In

Scenes 18-24 / Pages 18-24 / 65% target

60%

Investigations intensify: busting into restaurants, confronting suspects, false leads.

11

All Is Lost

Scene 33 / Page 33 / 75% target

64%

Revealing Dr. Nefario’s betrayal by working for El Macho marks the lowest point.

12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 36 / Page 36 / 80% target

62%

Gru learns Lucy has been captured, plunging him into guilt and despair.

13

Break into Three

Scene 32 / Page 32 / 85% target

65%

Lucy’s declaration (“I choose Gru”) reinvigorates their partnership and hope.

I choose Gru. I CHOOSE GRU!
14

Finale

Scenes 38-39 / Pages 38-39 / 95% target

61%

Climactic battle rescues Lucy and defeats El Macho, restoring order.

15

Final Image

Scene 40 / Page 40 / 99% target

60%

Gru and Lucy’s wedding reception shows transformed family and earned happiness.