Superman: The Return script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

A probe approaches New Krypton, establishing epic scope and the visual motif of discovery.

The Mayor’s speech about progress hints at the tension between advancement and its dangers.

Ladies and gentlemen, it is my very distinct honor to present to you, the city’s new mass transit...

We see the monorail hijacking, Clark’s heroics, and office interactions that establish characters and normal world.

Because he’s a damn good reporter, that’s how.

Clark’s unexplained vision of an explosion disrupts his domestic peace and spurs investigation.

Clark, are you okay?

Questions arise over Clark’s divided life as Lois and Richard worry and he retreats to the Fortress.

I think Jason needs to see a doctor.

Lex and Donovan’s meeting in Tangier kicks off the film’s main geopolitics, pushing Superman into new territory.

The one thing you’ve always wanted: the bigger picture.. Not bigger. Smaller.

Perry sends Lois to cover the new flying figure, planting the romantic subplot and B story.

Now, can someone tell me why we have another flying persona chasing around and we don’t know a...

Superhero showdowns, Lex’s courthouse release, and gala footage highlight the spectacle and public relations game.

We will rebuild Krypton. And we will continue what was lost so long ago.

Lois and Clark at Luthor’s gala reveal Lex’s growing power and a failed assassination, raising stakes.

KENT! I'm glad you're here. I'm sending Lois to Luthor's gala event tonight, and I want you there...

Meteor strike destroys the Daily Planet, entraps Clark, and Lois searches amid chaos, tightening the threat.

He...he was upstairs, I got -- I don’t know. I...

Clark is rescued by a mysterious figure but awakens in the Fortress to Kem-L’s betrayal message.

Kal-El. I had feared that you would not recover.

Kem-L’s plan to eradicate Earth’s unworthy shakes Superman to his core, creating doubt.

In order to continue our race, we must eradicate all who are unworthy of Krypton.

Superman confronts Lex in a final showdown, deciding to fight for humanity despite personal cost.

Your charade won’t last for long, Luthor. People will see you for the man you truly are.

Destruction of the Fortress and Superman’s return from space to collapse Earth’s core thwart Kem-L’s scheme in a triumphant effort.

Superman flying past the stratosphere mirrors the opening cosmic shot, showing restored balance.