Save the Cat rankings

JERRY MAGUIRE script analysis

JERRY MAGUIRE script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

Sports agent Jerry Maguire has a crisis of conscience, writes a radical mission statement, and is fired. Struggling to rebuild his career, he finds unexpected partnership with single mother Dorothy Boyd and clients like Rod Tidwell. As Jerry fights for his values and relationships, he endures betrayals, romantic highs and lows, and a near–career-ending low before a triumphant reconciliation. The film closes on Jerry’s renewed personal and professional life.

82 Save the Cat fit score 78% analysis confidence / 89 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

85%

A cosmic EXT. Earth from Space shot introduces Jerry’s voiceover framing the world he inhabits.

That's better. That's america. See, America still sets the tone for the world...
2

Theme Stated

Scene 14 / 5% target

72%

Dorothy’s praise of Jerry’s mission memo hints at the film’s central values of personal integrity and human connection.

I loved your memo, by the way.
3

Set-Up

Scenes 1-4 / Page 1 / 10% target

80%

We see Jerry at work—courting star athletes, crisis-managing, and thriving at SMI—establishing his world and stakes.

4

Catalyst

Scene 10 / 12% target

83%

Jerry’s breakdown in the Miami hotel room and drafting of the Mission Statement radically upsets his status quo.

5

Debate

Scene 18 / 20% target

80%

Bob Sugar fires Jerry, forcing him to question whether he can live by his new principles.

Came here to fire you, Jerry.
6

Break into Two

Scene 24 / 25% target

78%

Jerry quits dramatically and invites allies to join his new venture, stepping into his own untested path.

Who's coming with me besides... Flipper here?
7

B Story

Scene 14 / 30% target

75%

Jerry meets Dorothy Boyd, initiating the romantic subplot that illuminates his personal growth.

I loved your memo, by the way.
8

Fun and Games

Scene 20 / 40% target

77%

Jerry hustles Rod Tidwell over the phone, showcasing the new ups and downs of his solo agency life.

I'm sweatin, dude! That's how I'm "doin." I'm sweatin' my contract.
9

Midpoint

Scene 21 / 50% target

82%

“Show. Me. The. Money.” becomes the film’s rallying cry, marking Jerry’s and Rod’s peak of collaborative hope.

Show. Me. The. Money.
10

Bad Guys Close In

Scene 35 / 65% target

79%

Cush’s betrayal—signing with Bob Sugar behind Jerry’s back—threatens his client roster and morale.

So you empowered Bob Sugar to deal with Denver behind my back?
11

All Is Lost

Scene 36 / 75% target

81%

Jerry’s final fight with Avery ends their relationship, leaving him isolated personally and professionally.

I won't let you hurt me, Jerry. I'm too strong for you. Loser.
12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 41 / 80% target

74%

A drunken Jerry navigates a cab to Dorothy’s, confronting his failures and loneliness before a breakthrough.

Yes, good, floor it, kill us!!
13

Break into Three

Scene 83 / 85% target

80%

On the field, Jerry races to Rod and calls Marcee, signaling his recommitment to clients and loved ones.

He took a shot. He's unconscious.
14

Finale

Scene 87 / 95% target

88%

Jerry and Dorothy confess love—“You complete me/You had me at hello”—culminating personal and professional victories.

I love you. You complete me.
15

Final Image

Scene 89 / 99% target

83%

Jerry, Dorothy, and Ray leaving together mirrors the opening unity, now grounded in love and community.