Save the Cat rankings

Shaun of the Dead script analysis

Shaun of the Dead script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

Shaun of the Dead opens on Shaun’s mundane life with his slacker roommate Ed before a zombie apocalypse disrupts everything. Shaun must debate between normalcy and responsibility, which drives him to rescue his loved ones. After high‐energy zombie encounters and a midpoint disaster, Shaun faces true loss and finds resolve to save those he cares about. The story closes on a changed, domesticated Shaun six months later.

85 Save the Cat fit score 65% analysis confidence / 42 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

70%

Introduces Shaun’s static pub routine and his strained relationships.

You shouldn’t feel so responsible.
2

Theme Stated

Scene 2 / Page 2 / 5% target

60%

Pete’s reproach hints at responsibility as the central theme.

Haven’t you got work?
3

Set-Up

Scenes 1-4 / Pages 1-4 / 10% target

70%

We see Shaun’s dead‐end job, his relationship with Liz, and his complacent life with Ed.

4

Catalyst

Scene 5 / Page 5 / 12% target

75%

The first zombie appears in Shaun’s garden, shattering normality.

5

Debate

Scene 6 / Page 6 / 20% target

65%

Shaun and Ed question what’s happening and consider whether to act.

Do you think this is the same thing?
6

Break into Two

Scene 12 / Page 12 / 25% target

70%

They commit to rescuing Barbara and Liz, entering the ‘zombie world.’

7

B Story

Scene 26 / Page 26 / 30% target

60%

Shaun reunites with Liz, deepening the romantic subplot and stakes.

I’ve come to get you.
8

Fun and Games

Scenes 7-11 / Pages 7-11 / 40% target

70%

Montage of inventive zombie kills and learning about the outbreak.

9

Midpoint

Scene 18 / Page 18 / 50% target

65%

They hit a body on the road—stakes suddenly become real and dangerous.

10

Bad Guys Close In

Scene 21 / Page 21 / 65% target

65%

Philip’s zombie turn and Barbara’s distress tighten external and internal pressure.

I’m so sorry Philip.
11

All Is Lost

Scene 37 / Page 37 / 75% target

70%

A surprise undead attack inside the Winchester traps the group, seeming hopeless.

12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 38 / Page 38 / 80% target

75%

Ed’s sacrifice in the cellar represents Shaun’s emotional nadir.

13

Break into Three

Scene 40 / Page 40 / 85% target

65%

Rescue by Yvonne and military offers Shaun a new plan and hope.

14

Finale

Scene 41 / Page 41 / 95% target

60%

Shaun and Liz actively rebuild normal life, using lessons learned.

15

Final Image

Scene 42 / Page 42 / 99% target

60%

Shaun’s new life, playing with Zombie Ed, mirrors the Opening Image but with growth.