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HOTEL RWANDA script analysis

HOTEL RWANDA script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

Paul Rusesabagina, a hotel manager in Kigali, navigates growing tensions as violence erupts around him. When refugees flood into the Hotel des Mille Collines, Paul must use all his wit and connections to protect them. As the crisis deepens, he faces heartbreaking choices about his own family and the people he’s sheltering. Ultimately, Paul orchestrates a dangerous escape to reunite with his loved ones.

80 Save the Cat fit score 12% analysis confidence / 96 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

10%

Introduces Paul at the airport using bribery to navigate daily life in Kigali and sets tone of moral complexity.

Mr. Rusesabagina, good morning.
2

Theme Stated

Scene 14 / Page 1 / 5% target

10%

Paul dismisses warnings of looming violence with optimism, hinting at faith versus reality theme.

There will be peace. Don't listen to this man.
3

Set-Up

Scene 2 / Page 1 / 10% target

10%

Shows Paul’s routine at the airport and relationship with Zozo, establishing normal life and stakes.

You are with me, Zozo, don't worry.
4

Catalyst

Scene 18 / Page 1 / 12% target

10%

The president’s murder shatters Rwanda’s fragile peace and launches the crisis.

The president has been murdered.
5

Debate

Scene 16 / Page 1 / 20% target

10%

Paul argues with Tatiana about whether to use influence to help neighbors, questioning his moral duty.

Why didn't you call your contacts in the army?
6

Break into Two

Scene 23 / Page 1 / 25% target

10%

Paul’s home becomes a refuge as he commits to sheltering neighbors inside his house.

Where are you hurt, son?
7

B Story

Scene 14 / Page 1 / 30% target

10%

Family dinner introduces Paul’s personal bonds and human cost underpinning his actions.

I've heard bad things, Paul. My assistant says we should get out of Rwanda.
8

Fun and Games

Scene 10 / Page 1 / 40% target

10%

Paul showcases hotel hospitality, maneuvering dignitaries and demonstrating his resourcefulness.

Colonel Oliver, you are very welcome.
9

Midpoint

Scene 24 / Page 1 / 50% target

10%

Open violence in the city marks a point of no return, raising stakes dramatically.

10

Bad Guys Close In

Scene 43 / Page 1 / 65% target

10%

Militia openly taunt UN troops, showing collapse of order and increasing danger.

They murdered my soldiers. Ten Belgians who I sent to get the lady minister.
11

All Is Lost

Scene 70 / Page 1 / 75% target

10%

During evacuation Paul sends his wife away but refuses to leave without waiting for his twins, feeling helpless.

Get on the truck, Tatiana.
12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 73 / Page 1 / 80% target

10%

Paul collapses from despair, confronting the possibility he’s failed everyone.

Boss, sir, quick, please, come quick.
13

Break into Three

Scene 77 / Page 1 / 85% target

10%

Paul resolves to bribe General Bizimungu to save the targeted convoy, finding a final strategy.

Please, General, I will give you money, whiskey.
14

Finale

Scene 94 / Page 1 / 95% target

10%

Paul insists all refugees board together onto UN trucks, leading rescue pass through chaos.

We can't wait. We all go together or not at all.
15

Final Image

Scene 96 / Page 1 / 99% target

10%

At the stadium, Paul reunites with his family, closing on hope amid tragedy.