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Maleficent script analysis

Maleficent script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

Maleficent introduces the faerie realm and Maleficent’s bond with Stefan, leading to betrayal and her transformation into a vengeful force. The midpoint pivot occurs with the theft of her wings, driving her into darkness before she rediscovers her love for Aurora. Ultimately, Maleficent redeems herself by saving Aurora and restoring balance.

0 Save the Cat fit score 0% analysis confidence / 75 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

20%

Opens on the aerial view of the moors showing the human–faerie interaction.

2

Theme Stated

Scene 3 / Page 1 / 5% target

20%

Shepherd warns against dark moor creatures, hinting at trust and betrayal themes.

The Pixies have been at it again!
3

Set-Up

Scenes 5-12 / Pages 1-10 / 10% target

20%

We meet Maleficent, the pixies, and her friendship with Stefan.

4

Catalyst

Scene 11 / Page 5 / 12% target

20%

Maleficent is scolded for flying above the Queen, escalating conflict.

You’re not allowed to fly above the Queen!
5

Debate

Scenes 16-17 / Pages 6-7 / 20% target

20%

Maleficent questions her place after Ulla’s punishment and probes Stefan about her parents.

I didn’t kill my mother. She died the night I was born.
6

Break into Two

Scene 19 / Page 9 / 25% target

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Upon Ulla’s death, Maleficent leaves the safe zone to seek the throne.

Her spell is broken.
7

B Story

Scenes 22-23 / Pages 9-10 / 30% target

20%

Stefan invites Maleficent to the human castle, deepening their bond.

Where are you going?
8

Fun and Games

Scenes 24-30 / Pages 10-15 / 40% target

20%

Maleficent explores human society and warns the faeries of betrayal.

9

Midpoint

Scene 53 / Page 25 / 50% target

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All is lost when Maleficent awakens to find her wings stolen.

10

Bad Guys Close In

Scenes 54-58 / Pages 26-30 / 65% target

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Stefan presents the wings to Henry, and Maleficent mourns but is urged by her father to grow stronger.

This pain is a gift. You can use it to grow stronger than you ever were.
11

All Is Lost

Scenes 58-59 / Pages 30-31 / 75% target

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Maleficent hits rock bottom, stripped of wings and hope.

12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scenes 59-62 / Pages 31-34 / 80% target

20%

She grieves and considers revenge before Aurora’s innocence rekindles her humanity.

13

Break into Three

Scene 71 / Page 40 / 85% target

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Maleficent kisses Aurora, breaking the curse and choosing love over vengeance.

I promise to look after you...every day for the rest of my life.
14

Finale

Scene 74 / Page 42 / 95% target

20%

Maleficent defeats Stefan but spares him for Aurora’s sake, restoring order.

It would feel so good to kill you. But I’ll let you live, for Aurora’s sake.
15

Final Image

Scene 75 / Page 43 / 99% target

20%

Maleficent crowns Aurora, completing her redemption arc.

Fair People of the Moors... I give you Queen Aurora.