Save the Cat rankings

MORTAL KOMBAT script analysis

MORTAL KOMBAT script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

A grieving former boxer discovers a mystical medallion then must train with a ragtag team to enter Mortal Kombat and avenge his family. Along the way he learns inner strength, forms alliances, and faces the tournament’s ultimate evil.

60 Save the Cat fit score 12% analysis confidence / 24 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

8%

Introduction to a brutal, captive warrior sets the film’s violent tone.

2

Theme Stated

Scene 4 / 5% target

10%

‘Never quit!’ establishes the perseverance theme early.

Get up, Dad! Never quit!
3

Set-Up

Scenes 4-6 / 10% target

11%

We meet Cole as a fighter, his family life, and see him discover the medallion.

4

Catalyst

Scene 7 / 12% target

10%

Sub-Zero’s attack kills Allison, forcing Cole into action.

We need to leave RIGHT NOW!
5

Debate

Scenes 8-9 / 20% target

9%

Cole questions whether he has what it takes as Outworld forces close in.

6

Break into Two

Scene 10 / 25% target

10%

Cole joins Sonya and Kano, committing to the Mortal Kombat quest.

The answer lies with this symbol.
7

B Story

Scenes 11-12 / 30% target

10%

Sonya’s exposition and Reptile’s attack deepen team bonds and stakes.

8

Fun and Games

Scenes 13-17 / 40% target

10%

The team travels, meets Raiden, and trains to discover their Arcana powers.

9

Midpoint

Scene 18 / 50% target

11%

Cole’s Arcana manifestation discussion marks a false victory and new stakes.

10

Bad Guys Close In

Scenes 19-20 / 65% target

11%

Team tensions and grueling training heighten internal and external conflicts.

11

All Is Lost

Scene 21 / 75% target

12%

Cole faces Sub-Zero alone and seems outmatched before finding his fire powers.

12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 22 / 80% target

11%

After Shang Tsung gloats, hope appears lost as Outworld’s champions loom.

13

Break into Three

Scene 23 / 85% target

10%

Finding Johnny Cage renews the team’s hope and plan to turn the tide.

14

Finale

Scene 24 / 95% target

10%

Shang Tsung’s warning propels the final showdown to save Earthrealm.

The war is not over. Your son stands to fight with Earthrealm. Deal with him.
15

Final Image

Scene 24 / 99% target

9%

The medallion in Scorpion’s hands mirrors the opening’s power dynamics.