Save the Cat rankings

Poltergeist script analysis

Poltergeist script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

Poltergeist follows the Bowen family as they move into a haunted house built on a cemetery and confront escalating supernatural phenomena. The narrative alternates between family drama and ghostly encounters, culminating in a desperate rescue mission in the flooded basement. Ultimately, the house implodes and the family narrowly escapes, only to hint at a lingering threat.

75 Save the Cat fit score 12% analysis confidence / 53 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

11%

The film opens on the Bowen family squabbling in the minivan, establishing their ordinary life.

2

Theme Stated

Scene 5 / 5% target

11%

Amy’s concern about money foreshadows the theme of security versus safety.

Cheer up, kiddo. I got you that AR Drone you wanted.
3

Set-Up

Scenes 1-4 / Page 1 / 10% target

13%

We meet each family member and see the new house’s unsettling atmosphere when Madison talks to the closet presence.

4

Catalyst

Scene 11 / 12% target

12%

Eric and Amy learn the house was built on a cemetery, triggering the haunting.

They moved a cemetery?
5

Debate

Scene 6 / 20% target

11%

Amy and Eric argue over Griffin’s strange behavior and whether they made a mistake moving in.

Something's wrong with him, Eric. It's not just anxiety. He was saying the craziest things. And he believed...
6

Break into Two

Scene 20 / 25% target

12%

Hearing Madison’s voice through the TV propels the family into investigating the supernatural world.

I can't see you, Mommy.
7

B Story

Scene 21 / 30% target

11%

Consulting Dr. Powell introduces the expert subplot and emotional support for the family.

8

Fun and Games

Scenes 22-28 / 40% target

13%

The investigation team experiences escalating paranormal activity and attempts communication with Madison.

9

Midpoint

Scene 29 / 50% target

12%

A false victory moment—Madison’s voice is a manifestation and the real daughter is still missing.

That wasn't your daughter. You need to know that. It was just a manifestation. Maddy's safe.
10

Bad Guys Close In

Scene 31 / 65% target

12%

Eric confronts the portal in the closet and faces the full force of the entity.

GIVE HER BACK! GIVE HER BACK NOW!
11

All Is Lost

Scene 44 / 75% target

12%

The house abducts the children and traps the parents in the van—ultimate hopelessness.

12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 49 / 80% target

11%

Amy struggles alone in the flooded basement, facing despair before finding resolve.

Go, baby! Scoot up there!
13

Break into Three

Scene 48 / 85% target

12%

Eric decides to crash the van into the house, committing to a desperate final plan.

You said it was over!
14

Finale

Scenes 49-51 / 95% target

12%

The parents rescue Madison and the house implodes, resolving the haunting.

15

Final Image

Scene 53 / 99% target

11%

The family visits another house but senses danger, mirroring the opening family dynamic with a new threat.