Save the Cat rankings

State and Main script analysis

State and Main script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

A film production arrives in a small New England town, disrupting its inhabitants and drawing writer Joe into local politics, romance with Ann, and a scandalous car accident. As Joe navigates studio pressures and his growing relationship, the community rallies to protect its image. Ultimately, the crisis resolves and both the film and Joe’s romance reach satisfying conclusions.

65 Save the Cat fit score 76% analysis confidence / 31 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

70%

Ann feeding a dog and posting a notice introduces the quaint town setting and tone.

2

Theme Stated

Scene 12 / 5% target

80%

Joe’s discussion of the Old Mill metaphorically states the story’s theme of perspective and purity.

As the Old Mill goes around, he sees...
3

Set-Up

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

70%

We meet the townspeople, the traffic issues, and the arrival of production staff, establishing characters and setting.

4

Catalyst

Scene 7 / 12% target

70%

Walt’s attempt to secure a shooting permit forces the town into the film’s orbit and kicks off the main conflict.

Whatever you need. The City Council, of course, has to pass on your...
5

Debate

Scene 8 / 20% target

70%

Joe hesitates over renting a typewriter and entering the production, weighing his ordinary life against the new opportunity.

I want to rent this one.
6

Break into Two

Scene 14 / 25% target

70%

Walt persuades Joe at the train station to stay in town, propelling him into the film world.

It was an essence - what is the essence of your story? Joe?
7

B Story

Scene 10 / 30% target

70%

Joe runs into Ann leaving the set, beginning their romantic subplot.

8

Fun and Games

Scenes 11-13 / 40% target

70%

Joe and Ann tour the town, discuss his script’s themes, and deepen their connection.

9

Midpoint

Scene 23 / 50% target

80%

Joe witnesses Bob and Carla’s car crash, raising the stakes with a dramatic reversal.

10

Bad Guys Close In

Scenes 24-26 / 65% target

70%

The production team conspires to cover up the accident and faces political backlash.

Then she wasn't in the car. Say it.
11

All Is Lost

Scene 26 / 75% target

70%

The Mayor’s outrage threatens the film’s permit, suggesting total failure.

12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 28 / 80% target

70%

Joe and Ann question their future and the impact of the scandal on their lives.

13

Break into Three

Scene 29 / 85% target

70%

Bob’s arrest and the discovery of Joe as a witness set the stage for public resolution.

And I've got a witness! Your Mr. White saw the crime.
14

Finale

Scenes 30-31 / 95% target

70%

The film shoot wraps with a successful scene and Joe finally watches Ann interact with her family, tying up production and romance arcs.

Only second chance I know, chance t'make the same mistake twice.
15

Final Image

Scene 31 / 99% target

70%

Joe observes Ann from a distance as production continues, mirroring the opening’s reflective tone.