Save the Cat rankings

ROAD TO PERDITION script analysis

ROAD TO PERDITION script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

Michael Sullivan balances family life with his dangerous mob work until his son witnesses a murder, propelling them on the run. Betrayal by Rooney’s son ignites Sullivan’s quest for vengeance, leading to a final tragic confrontation.

80 Save the Cat fit score 36% analysis confidence / 56 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

45%

Introduces Michael Jr. by the lake recalling his father, establishing tone.

There are many stories about Michael Sullivan. Some say he was a decent man. Some say there was...
2

Theme Stated

Scene 8 / Page 8 / 5% target

40%

Family prayer at dinner hints at faith and loyalty themes.

Bless us oh Lord for these thy gifts which we are about to receive through the bounty of...
3

Set-Up

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

42%

We see Michael Jr.’s daily routine, his family dynamics, and Sullivan’s ritual removing his gun.

4

Catalyst

Scene 15 / Page 15 / 12% target

50%

Michael Jr. witnesses Sullivan and Connor kill Finn McGovern, shattering innocence.

Come on now, Finn. Let’s make this easy.
5

Debate

Scenes 16-20 / Pages 16-20 / 20% target

38%

Connor’s attack on the house forces Sullivan to question protecting his son versus facing danger.

6

Break into Two

Scenes 22-24 / Pages 22-24 / 25% target

44%

Sullivan drives away at high speed with Michael, marking entry into Act Two escape.

7

B Story

Scenes 40-43 / Pages 40-43 / 30% target

40%

In the shack, Michael and his father bond as he recovers, deepening their emotional connection.

Well...come on in. Take a seat, if you want.
8

Fun and Games

Scenes 28-34 / Pages 28-34 / 40% target

41%

Sullivan confronts Connor and Rance, embarking on investigative and confrontational set-pieces.

GODDAMN YOU! GODDAMN YOU...I CURSE THE FUCKIN’ DAY YOU WERE BORN! I CURSE IT! YOU!
9

Midpoint

Scenes 48-49 / Pages 48-49 / 50% target

47%

Sullivan confronts Rooney in church and crypt, discovering the full betrayal at stake.

Connor’s been stealing from you for years. He’s kept accounts open under the names of dead men. Men...
10

Bad Guys Close In

Scenes 50-53 / Pages 50-53 / 65% target

39%

Sullivan arms himself and eliminates Rooney’s bodyguards; Nitti plots Connor’s demise.

11

All Is Lost

Scene 54 / Page 54 / 75% target

42%

Sullivan kills Connor, completing vengeance but feeling empty.

12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 55 / Page 55 / 80% target

40%

Sullivan reunites with Michael, reflecting on the cost of his actions.

13

Break into Three

Scene 56 / Page 56 / 85% target

36%

Maguire arrives, forcing one last stand and decision.

14

Finale

Scene 56 / Page 56 / 95% target

38%

Final battle as Sullivan is shot, Michael must choose his path.

Give me the gun. Michael? Don’t you do this... Give me the gun.
15

Final Image

Scene 56 / Page 56 / 99% target

37%

Michael cradles his dying father, mirroring the opening but with loss.