Save the Cat rankings

Larry Crowne script analysis

Larry Crowne script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

Larry Crowne is a middle-aged, enthusiastic worker who suddenly loses his job and debates his next steps. Encouraged by friends, he enrolls in community college where he meets new people and finds love with his speech teacher, Mercedes. As he juggles classes, financial woes, and a budding romance, setbacks test his resolve. Ultimately, he embraces change, resting his past behind and riding into a new beginning.

80 Save the Cat fit score 29% analysis confidence / 79 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

20%

Introduces Larry’s cheerful routine arriving at Unimart.

2

Theme Stated

Scene 7 / 5% target

30%

Lamarr’s line underscores the film’s theme that education makes one resilient.

Get some knowledge and you'll be fire proof.
3

Set-Up

Scenes 1-3 / 10% target

20%

Establishes Larry’s friendly Unimart life and dependable role.

4

Catalyst

Scene 5 / 12% target

30%

Larry is unexpectedly fired, shattering his status quo.

UniMart is firing me...
5

Debate

Scenes 6-9 / 20% target

25%

Larry wrestles with financial fears at the bank, neighbors’ advice, and considers his future.

6

Break into Two

Scene 10 / 25% target

30%

He commits to enrolling at community college, stepping into a new world.

7

B Story

Scene 12 / 30% target

30%

Larry’s first encounter with Mercedes introduces the romantic subplot.

8

Fun and Games

Scenes 12-18 / 40% target

25%

Shows Larry navigating college life, scooter gang antics, and meeting new friends.

9

Midpoint

Scene 42 / 50% target

30%

Larry and Mercedes share a pivotal kiss, marking a false victory in their relationship.

10

Bad Guys Close In

Scene 48 / 65% target

25%

Mercedes feels betrayed seeing Larry with Talia, intensifying emotional conflict.

11

All Is Lost

Scene 65 / 75% target

30%

Larry leaves his home as it goes into escrow, symbolizing personal loss.

12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 63 / 80% target

25%

Larry rides his scooter alone at night, reflecting on his failures.

13

Break into Three

Scene 75 / 85% target

30%

Mercedes finds Larry’s encouraging note, rekindling hope for their relationship.

14

Finale

Scenes 77-79 / 95% target

30%

They reunite in Larry’s new apartment and share breakfast, resolving their arc.

15

Final Image

Scene 79 / 99% target

20%

Mercedes practicing on the scooter echoes Larry’s fresh start.