Save the Cat rankings

HARD RAIN script analysis

HARD RAIN script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

In a flood-threatened town, armored-car guard Tom survives a heist gone wrong and is imprisoned in a flooding sheriff’s station. He teams up with Karen and townspeople to outwit ruthless robbers led by Jim, leading to a climactic church showdown and personal redemption. The story ends with Tom and Karen rebuilding what was lost.

75 Save the Cat fit score 52% analysis confidence / 57 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

60%

Introduces the flooded town under siege, establishing tone and stakes.

So, are we all going to die?
2

Theme Stated

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 5% target

45%

The question of survival highlights the theme of facing disaster and moral choices.

3

Set-Up

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

55%

We meet Tom, the Sheriff, and Jim’s crew plotting a heist amid the flood preparations.

4

Catalyst

Scene 6 / Page 6 / 12% target

60%

The armored truck is stranded in floodwaters, setting the heist in motion.

5

Debate

Scene 8 / Page 8 / 20% target

65%

Tom’s fate is debated by Jim’s crew as they threaten his life for the money.

This is my retirement fund, boys, and if any one of you screws up, I swear to God...
6

Break into Two

Scene 14 / Page 14 / 25% target

58%

Tom is jailed and forced to rely on others as the flood closes in.

You took the money, didn't you.
7

B Story

Scene 23 / Page 23 / 30% target

60%

Karen’s faith in Tom introduces their partnership and emotional subplot.

They'll get him out.
8

Fun and Games

Scenes 24-34 / Pages 24-34 / 40% target

55%

Tom and Karen dodge robbers and navigate the flooded streets in a series of escapes.

9

Midpoint

Scene 30 / Page 30 / 50% target

62%

The unexpected propane explosion reveals Jim’s men have tracked them to the roof.

10

Bad Guys Close In

Scene 31 / Page 31 / 65% target

60%

Jim’s crew intensifies their search for Tom and Karen in the rising water.

They're in the water! Kenny, cut your engine!
11

All Is Lost

Scene 38 / Page 38 / 75% target

50%

An exploding transformer leaves them vulnerable and unaware of Jim’s proximity.

12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 43 / Page 43 / 80% target

58%

Jim captures Tom and allies, marking the low point of hope.

Why don't we just get him?
13

Break into Three

Scene 49 / Page 49 / 85% target

63%

Tom turns the tables in the cemetery firefight when the money is gone and conflict escalates.

14

Finale

Scenes 51-55 / Pages 51-55 / 95% target

60%

A violent shootout in the burning church culminates in sacrifices, rescue, and resolution.

Sorry, Wayne, but I'm not playing a part in your sick little play.
15

Final Image

Scene 57 / Page 57 / 99% target

65%

Tom and Karen repairing the church roof symbolizes rebuilding after crisis.

They got a lot done today.