Save the Cat rankings

SIDEWAYS script analysis

SIDEWAYS script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

Miles, a struggling writer and wine enthusiast, embarks on a weekend trip through California’s wine country with his old friend Jack. Along the way, Miles confronts memories of his failed marriage and his insecurities while Jack pursues romantic encounters. Miles forms a tentative connection with Maya, a waitress, but Jack’s reckless behavior strains their friendship. Ultimately, Miles finds closure and renewed purpose as he supports Jack at his wedding and reconnects with Maya.

60 Save the Cat fit score 30% analysis confidence / 113 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

20%

Miles is introduced groggily waking in his cluttered apartment, setting a tone of inertia.

2

Theme Stated

Scene 9 / 5% target

25%

At his mother’s birthday, the theme of caring gestures and the cost of neglect is hinted.

My God. Miles. And Jack! What a surprise. I can't remember the last time you brought me flowers.
3

Set-Up

Scenes 2-6 / 10% target

30%

We meet Miles’s daily routine and Jack’s arrival, establishing their dynamic and the upcoming wine tour.

4

Catalyst

Scene 7 / 12% target

25%

Jack’s impatience in the car call kicks off the journey’s tension and sets their conflict in motion.

Where the fuck were you, man? I was dying in there. We were supposed to be a hundred...
5

Debate

Scene 13 / 20% target

30%

Miles and Jack argue over morals and Miles’s reluctance to pursue an underage girl.

She's a kid, Jack. I don't even look at that stuff anymore.
6

Break into Two

Scenes 14-15 / 25% target

30%

They leave town and pursue their wine‐tasting adventure, entering a new world of possibilities.

7

B Story

Scenes 21-22 / 30% target

35%

Miles meets Maya, who will become his emotional throughline and romantic interest.

Oh, yeah. That's Maya.
8

Fun and Games

Scenes 17-19 / 40% target

30%

The pair taste wine and bond, and Jack’s marriage troubles emerge, showcasing the trip’s promise.

It's not even a mile.
9

Midpoint

Scene 28 / 50% target

35%

Jack reveals Victoria’s remarriage, delivering an emotional turnaround for Miles.

Yeah, but that's not the whole story. She got remarried.
10

Bad Guys Close In

Scenes 31-32 / 65% target

30%

Tensions mount during dinner with Maya and Stephanie, and Jack pushes Miles toward risky behavior.

Pull yourself together, man.
11

All Is Lost

Scene 86 / 75% target

30%

Miles has a public breakdown at the large commercial winery, feeling utterly defeated.

Tastes like the back of a fucking LA schoolbus. Probably didn't de-stem, hoping for some semblance of concentration,...
12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 89 / 80% target

30%

On the beach, Miles admits he’s given up writing and questions his identity.

No, I'm finished. I'm not a writer. I'm a middle-school English teacher. I'm going to spend the rest...
13

Break into Three

Scene 93 / 85% target

25%

Miles waits in the ER and leaves a heartfelt message to Maya, deciding to take action.

It's Miles. Listen, I don't know if you even care, but I had to call and tell you...
14

Finale

Scene 107 / 95% target

30%

Jack’s wedding formalizes their bond and allows Miles to step back into life with renewed purpose.

15

Final Image

Scene 113 / 99% target

30%

Miles arrives at Maya’s door, ready to reconnect, completing his emotional journey.

Anyway, like I said, I really loved your novel. Don't give up, Miles. Keep writing. You're really good....