Save the Cat rankings

Groundhog Day script analysis

Groundhog Day script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

Phil Connors, a cynical weatherman, becomes trapped in a time loop reliving Groundhog Day. Initially he exploits the situation for personal gain, then descends into despair before finding redemption through selflessness. Ultimately, he breaks the cycle by embracing genuine love and altruism.

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

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

80%

Introduces Phil's disdainful attitude toward Punxsutawney and the daily grind.

Christ, what a pit. Phil
2

Theme Stated

Scene 55 / 5% target

75%

Rita’s line about wishing for many lifetimes hints at the value of time and love.

Sometimes I wish I had a thousand lifetimes. One to be a great journalist. One to, I don't...
3

Set-Up

Scenes 1-4 / Page 1 / 10% target

85%

Establishes Phil’s arrogance, his assignment to Punxsutawney, and his strained relationships.

4

Catalyst

Scene 15 / 12% target

88%

Phil wakes to the radio and realizes he’s reliving February 2nd.

5

Debate

Scenes 16-23 / 20% target

80%

Phil struggles to understand and escape the loop—trying logic, confession, and medical help.

I ' m not talking about last year. I ' m talking about today. I lived it before.
6

Break into Two

Scene 23 / 25% target

78%

Phil confesses the loop to Rita, committing to change his approach to getting help.

Big time. Rita, I know it's nuts but I keep reliving the same day o ve r and...
7

B Story

Scene 53 / 30% target

80%

Phil and Rita’s budding romance becomes the emotional core of his transformation.

8

Fun and Games

Scenes 30-42 / 40% target

85%

Phil experiments with the loop—reckless exploits, predictions, and cynicism.

9

Midpoint

Scene 31 / 50% target

82%

Phil predicts the breakfast routine perfectly, showing mastery and false victory.

Yes, I would like some coffee; the weather is going to be cold and overcast with blizzard conditions...
10

Bad Guys Close In

Scenes 42-49 / 65% target

83%

Phil’s anger and despair deepen—he attacks the tradition and even kidnaps the groundhog.

I've come to the end of me, Rita. There's only one way out now. Just remember we had...
11

All Is Lost

Scene 51 / 75% target

88%

Phil drives off a cliff in a final suicide attempt—symbolizing total defeat.

12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 52 / 80% target

86%

Phil tries to prove godhood and hits rock bottom in the diner, rejected by Rita.

No, I'm A god. Not THE God-- at least I don't think I am.
13

Break into Three

Scene 65 / 85% target

80%

Phil helps a homeless man—committing to selflessness and compassion.

14

Finale

Scenes 67-74 / 95% target

84%

Phil performs repeated good deeds, wins Rita’s heart, and finally breaks the loop.

15

Final Image

Scene 75 / 99% target

90%

Phil and Rita walk happily together, showing his transformation.