Save the Cat rankings

SUICIDE SQUAD script analysis

SUICIDE SQUAD script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

A group of incarcerated supervillains is assembled by Amanda Waller into Task Force X to battle a supernatural threat unleashed by the Enchantress. The team navigates internal conflicts and dangerous missions as they fight demonic forces in Midway City. Personal backstories and shifting loyalties test their resolve until they unite for a final assault. In the end, they survive but return to imprisonment, changed by their shared ordeal.

70 Save the Cat fit score 80% analysis confidence / 23 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

60%

June Moone’s cave exploration establishes the film’s dark, mystical tone and introduces the Enchantress threat.

2

Theme Stated

Scene 2 / Page 1 / 5% target

70%

June’s line “Yes. From my dreams.” hints at the power of belief and identity, foreshadowing the theme of inner strength.

Yes. From my dreams.
3

Set-Up

Scenes 3-5 / Pages 1-5 / 10% target

80%

We meet key villains (Joker, Harley, Deadshot) and their imprisonments, establishing character stakes and team dynamics.

4

Catalyst

Scene 6 / Page 5 / 12% target

90%

Amanda Waller proposes forming the Suicide Squad, triggering the story’s central mission.

I want to assemble a task force. Of the most dangerous people on the planet.
5

Debate

Scene 9 / Page 7 / 20% target

80%

Flag and Waller argue over control and the squad’s worth, highlighting the risks and moral uncertainty.

It's need to know. And all you need to know is you work for me.
6

Break into Two

Scene 11 / Page 9 / 25% target

80%

The squad’s first field mission ends in disaster when Slipknot dies, committing them to Waller’s plan.

7

B Story

Scene 8 / Page 8 / 30% target

70%

Flag and June discuss the Enchantress, introducing June’s personal conflict separate from the main action.

What if Waller can't make her go away?
8

Fun and Games

Scenes 12-13 / Pages 9-10 / 40% target

80%

The team battles demons in the city and Waller monitors remotely, showcasing the squad’s chaotic cohesion.

You'll protect me, right doll?
9

Midpoint

Scene 15 / Page 11 / 50% target

80%

At the Federal Building, they engage heavily with demon forces, raising stakes and forcing unity.

We're badguys. It's what we do.
10

Bad Guys Close In

Scene 16 / Page 12 / 65% target

70%

Internal tension resurfaces as Diablo hesitates until Deadshot pushes him, showing vulnerability under pressure.

Hey! We could use your help.
11

All Is Lost

Scene 19 / Page 13 / 75% target

80%

The Joker hijacks the escape helicopter, leaving the squad stranded and mission seemingly ruined.

12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 17 / Page 12 / 80% target

70%

Harley’s flashback with Joker reflects her internal conflict and sense of loss, deepening character stakes.

You ever been in love?
13

Break into Three

Scene 21 / Page 14 / 85% target

80%

Flag rallies the team for a final assault on the Rail Station, committing them to one last gamble.

I need you. So choose your man well. I'm not asking them to do something I won't do.
14

Finale

Scene 22 / Page 14 / 95% target

90%

The squad battles the Enchantress and Incubus in a climactic showdown, resolving the supernatural threat.

I'm the most real thing here. Do I prove it?
15

Final Image

Scene 23 / Page 15 / 99% target

70%

Harley’s breakout with the Joker resets the status quo but hints at changed relationships post-mission.