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PREDATOR 2 script analysis

PREDATOR 2 script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

NYPD detective Harrigan investigates a series of brutal killings in Los Angeles, only to discover an alien hunter is behind them. As he clashes with his superiors and teams up with the federal OWLF task force, he loses friends and faces his own doubts. Captured and briefed on the Predator’s nature, he battles through traps and confrontations to stop the creature. In the end, he emerges wounded but victorious, having proven his worth.

80 Save the Cat fit score 50% analysis confidence / 39 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

60%

The film opens with a tense weapons deal disrupted by the Predator’s sudden, brutal attack, establishing the tone and stakes.

I think I'll take it all.
2

Theme Stated

Scene 2 / Page 1 / 5% target

45%

Harrigan’s sarcastic challenge to the Sergeant hints at themes of authority and survival under fire.

So what the fuck are you waiting for, an invitation?
3

Set-Up

Scenes 3-5 / Pages 1-10 / 10% target

55%

Harrigan’s team clears the sweatshop, investigates the gruesome scene and argues bureaucratically, establishing characters, relationships and the mystery of these killings.

4

Catalyst

Scene 4 / Page 10 / 12% target

60%

The Predator kills the fleeing guard on the rooftop, shifting the case from street crime to something deadly unknown.

5

Debate

Scene 6 / Pages 10-15 / 20% target

50%

Harrigan’s confrontation with Deputy Chief Heinemann about jurisdiction underscores his doubts and debate over procedure versus instinct.

Deputy-chief Heinemann. What a pleasant surprise.
6

Break into Two

Scenes 7-8 / Pages 15-20 / 25% target

55%

Faced with federal oversight in Pilgrim’s office and meeting Tony D’Angelo, Harrigan commits to a cross-agency hunt, entering Act Two.

As much as it's going to burn your ass, you're going to have to roll over and play...
7

B Story

Scene 13 / Pages 20-25 / 30% target

50%

The alleyway meeting with King Willie introduces the criminal underworld subplot and themes of trust and power.

I want some information.
8

Fun and Games

Scenes 9-12 / Pages 25-40 / 40% target

60%

A series of Predator attacks on gangs and night clubs provide the thrills and showcase its hunting prowess.

9

Midpoint

Scene 15 / Pages 40-45 / 50% target

55%

King Willie’s trophy kill marks a false victory for the Predator and raises the stakes for Harrigan.

10

Bad Guys Close In

Scene 20 / Pages 45-50 / 65% target

60%

The subway attack on Tony and Leona shows the Predator closing in and turning personal.

11

All Is Lost

Scene 22 / Pages 50-55 / 75% target

60%

Harrigan finds the bodies of his friends killed, hitting rock bottom emotionally and tactically.

12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 24 / Pages 55-60 / 80% target

55%

Captured by OWLF operatives, Harrigan questions his fate and whether he can fight back against an alien hunter.

13

Break into Three

Scene 25 / Pages 60-65 / 85% target

60%

At the OWLF command center, Keyes reveals the Predator’s biology and weapons, giving Harrigan new resolve and tools.

You can remove them.
14

Finale

Scenes 27-31 / Pages 65-85 / 95% target

65%

Harrigan’s guerilla fight—from the packing house to rooftops—leverages his police ingenuity to outwit and finally defeat the Predator.

I'm here, motherfuck! You want me, come and get me!
15

Final Image

Scene 39 / Page 99 / 99% target

60%

Harrigan’s parting words to Keyes underscore that despite alien horrors, life (and cop work) goes on.

Don't worry, Keyes, you'll get another chance.