Save the Cat rankings

LIMITLESS script analysis

LIMITLESS script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

Eddie, a struggling writer, is given a cognitive‐enhancing drug that transforms his life—from literary failure to Wall Street phenom—until the pill’s deadly costs and criminal interests close in. He hits rock bottom, fights back to secure his future, and ultimately pivots into politics. The story frames his arc from desperation through triumph and moral reckoning.

75 Save the Cat fit score 20% analysis confidence / 89 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

20%

Eddie is introduced hiding in his apartment as intruders break in, establishing his desperate, low‐point life.

2

Theme Stated

Scene 7 / 5% target

20%

Lindy breaks up with Eddie, underscoring that achievement and relationships require real effort, foreshadowing price of shortcuts.

I don't think I can keep this.
3

Set-Up

Scenes 1-6 / Page 1 / 10% target

20%

We see Eddie’s failing writing career, loneliness, and financial stress.

4

Catalyst

Scene 9 / 12% target

20%

Vernon offers Eddie the mysterious MDT‐48 pill that can change his life forever.

I think I have something that can help you.
5

Debate

Scenes 10-11 / 20% target

20%

Eddie wrestles with taking the drug, then tests its power on his neighbor and reflects on its potential.

If you're writing a paper, that's not the book I'd use.
6

Break into Two

Scenes 10-11 / 25% target

20%

Eddie takes the pill and immediately experiences a new world of clarity and productivity.

7

B Story

Scene 7 / 30% target

20%

Lindy’s breakup marks the emotional subplot about love and authenticity.

I don't think I can keep this.
8

Fun and Games

Scenes 22-25 / 40% target

20%

Eddie uses MDT to clean up his life, woo finance types, and impress on the trading floor.

9

Midpoint

Scene 33 / 50% target

20%

Eddie dominates the trading floor, marking a false victory and high stakes for his new abilities.

10

Bad Guys Close In

Scenes 47-49 / 65% target

20%

The man in the tan coat pursues Eddie and Gennady demands more pills, raising threats.

11

All Is Lost

Scene 69 / 75% target

20%

Eddie discovers his entire MDT supply is missing in Van Loon’s office, losing his edge.

12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 74 / 80% target

20%

On the terrace ledge, Eddie contemplates suicide, realizing he’s utterly lost without the drug.

13

Break into Three

Scene 86 / 85% target

20%

Eddie raids Brandt’s home to secure resources and plot his comeback, indicating new resolve.

14

Finale

Scenes 87-88 / 95% target

20%

Eddie leverages his skills and knowledge to win a political campaign and confronts those who control MDT.

15

Final Image

Scene 89 / 99% target

20%

Eddie, now a senator, emerges with Steadman into the daylight, showing his transformation and the ongoing cost of greatness.