Save the Cat rankings

PETULIA script analysis

PETULIA script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

Dr. Archie Bollen’s chance encounter with the free‐spirited Petulia launches him into an unpredictable journey of love and self‐discovery. As their relationship deepens, personal and external obstacles force Archie to confront his fears and ultimately choose between safety and passion. The story culminates in a life‐changing reunion just as Petulia prepares to give birth, underscoring Archie's transformation.

60 Save the Cat fit score 35% analysis confidence / 72 parsed scenes

Save the Cat is referenced as a story-analysis framework. SlugDB is not affiliated with Save the Cat or its rights holders.

1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

30%

Ambulances arriving at the hotel set a formal, clinical mood that mirrors Archie's world as a doctor.

2

Theme Stated

Scene 2 / Page 1 / 5% target

40%

Petulia’s playful line suggests resisting societal roles and embracing authenticity.

You're an official host.
3

Set-Up

Scenes 2-7 / Pages 1-10 / 10% target

40%

Establishes Archie and Petulia’s flirtatious dynamic and Archie's orderly life as a doctor.

4

Catalyst

Scene 12 / Pages 10-12 / 12% target

50%

Petulia abruptly tells Archie she’s going to marry him, upending his reality.

Archie, I'm going to marry you.
5

Debate

Scene 14 / Pages 12-15 / 20% target

50%

Archie hesitates as Petulia moves in with her wild baggage, testing his willingness to embrace chaos.

Aren't I a kook? If you think you're SURPRISED
6

Break into Two

Scene 17 / Pages 15-17 / 25% target

50%

Archie commits to therapy sessions with Oliver, extending himself beyond medicine into emotional care.

I want him here every day. For therapy.
7

B Story

Scene 23 / Pages 20-22 / 30% target

50%

Archie’s friendship with Barney provides emotional support and commentary on growing up.

I don't know what I want. To feel something,
8

Fun and Games

Scenes 24-36 / Pages 22-40 / 40% target

40%

Montage of Archie and Petulia’s unpredictable adventures—from tuba returns to tense confrontations—shows the highs and lows of their bond.

9

Midpoint

Scene 45 / Page 45 / 50% target

40%

They finally share a bed, symbolizing a false victory and deeper emotional connection.

10

Bad Guys Close In

Scene 55 / Page 60 / 65% target

40%

Oliver seduces Petulia into giving him a ride across the border, threatening Archie’s relationship.

11

All Is Lost

Scene 63 / Page 64 / 75% target

40%

Archie realizes Petulia has vanished, throwing his bouquet into the water in despair.

12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 64 / Page 64 / 80% target

40%

Watching her on the yacht, Archie confronts the cost of his insecurity and inaction.

13

Break into Three

Scene 70 / Page 70 / 85% target

40%

Encountering David in the hospital lobby reawakens Archie’s determination to fight for Petulia.

14

Finale

Scene 71 / Page 71 / 95% target

40%

Archie leaves the hospital euphoric, prepared to reunite with Petulia and embrace love.

15

Final Image

Scene 72 / Page 72 / 99% target

40%

Petulia in the delivery room parallels the opening’s medical imagery, but now embodies hope and new beginnings.