Save the Cat rankings

SHIFTY script analysis

SHIFTY script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

Two small-time dealers, Shifty and Chris, navigate violent family obligations and drug deals in their gritty neighborhood. When Shifty uncovers a mysterious package, their world unravels into betrayal, escalating threats, and fractured relationships. As loyalties are tested, they must decide whether to stay trapped in their dangerous cycle or escape together. The story culminates in a shocking revelation and a final choice to leave their past behind.

15 Save the Cat fit score 12% analysis confidence / 175 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

35%

Introduces Shifty and Chris waiting in a dark living room, setting the film’s moody tone.

Fucking hell, man... You're early!
2

Theme Stated

Scene 2 / Page 1 / 5% target

22%

Rez’s offhand reminder about obligations hints at themes of loyalty and familial duty.

Yeah I just needed to splash my face, freshen up a bit.
3

Set-Up

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 10% target

30%

We see Trevor’s domestic malaise and Shifty’s drug world, establishing stakes and character dynamics.

Fucking hell, man... You're early!
4

Catalyst

Scene 4 / Page 2 / 12% target

28%

The heavies forcibly kick in a door, thrusting Shifty into direct confrontation with violent forces.

You were gassing away to Nicola...
5

Debate

Scene 5 / Page 3 / 20% target

25%

Shifty reacts to conflict with Rez and debates whether to stay or flee their chaotic life.

Mate, neither have I... I just got back from some girls yard.
6

Break into Two

Scene 6 / Page 4 / 25% target

27%

Shifty discovers a mysterious package that propels him into the story’s second act.

Good to see you, mate.
7

B Story

Scene 9 / Page 6 / 30% target

20%

Trevor and Jasmine’s domestic tension parallels Shifty’s criminal world, providing emotional counterpoint.

In case of emergency's, man... you know it.
8

Fun and Games

Scene 8 / Page 5 / 40% target

24%

Shifty and Chris retrieve a hidden bag in the field, showcasing their camaraderie and the risks of their trade.

What, Break Glass Arse?
9

Midpoint

Scene 10 / Page 7 / 50% target

26%

An argument after a robbery marks a false victory, raising the stakes in their partnership.

What? I can't hear you babe.
10

Bad Guys Close In

Scene 11 / Page 8 / 65% target

22%

Glen prepares a syringe, signaling an imminent, dangerous threat closing in on the protagonists.

Yeah, she's alright you know.... She's got fucking massive Gary's.
11

All Is Lost

Scene 173 / Page 24 / 75% target

18%

Shifty realizes the Polaroid’s contents, a shocking truth that seems to doom their hope.

12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 175 / Page 24 / 80% target

20%

Watching footage of Trevor being assaulted underscores despair and personal loss.

13

Break into Three

Scene 176 / Page 25 / 85% target

21%

Rez finds the money Shifty leaves behind, signifying a turning point toward resolution.

14

Finale

Scene 172 / Page 23 / 95% target

19%

Loretta discovers Glen dead, triggering the final confrontation and fallout.

15

Final Image

Scene 178 / Page 25 / 99% target

23%

Shifty and Chris silently boarding the coach symbolizes their escape and new beginning.