Save the Cat rankings

THE ASSASSINATION OF JESSE JAMES BY THE COWARD ROBERT FORD script analysis

THE ASSASSINATION OF JESSE JAMES BY THE COWARD ROBERT FORD script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

The film opens on Jesse James’s quiet domestic life, then shifts to Bob Ford’s growing obsession and eventual betrayal. Bob’s arc unfolds through his ambitions and relationships, climaxing in the assassination and its fallout.

42 Save the Cat fit score 27% analysis confidence / 71 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

30%

Introduces Jesse James’s peaceful yet eccentric daily routine.

2

Theme Stated

Scene 13 / Page 13 / 5% target

25%

Bob and Jesse debate truth, hinting at identity and legacy themes.

You don't think it's funny?
3

Set-Up

Scenes 1-11 / Pages 1-11 / 10% target

30%

Establishes Jesse’s life, public persona, and Bob’s introduction.

4

Catalyst

Scene 12 / Page 12 / 12% target

30%

Frank James introduces Bob to the outlaw world.

Ah, Charley's brother.
5

Debate

Scene 13 / Page 13 / 20% target

25%

Bob questions whether Jesse’s legend is real or contrived.

6

Break into Two

Scene 28 / Page 28 / 25% target

28%

Bob’s admiration turns tense, marking his commitment to join Jesse’s circle.

Here's a cute story, Jess. Bobby was - what - eleven or twelve? And you were by far...
7

B Story

Scene 32 / Page 32 / 30% target

30%

Bob pitches himself to Henry Craig, launching his separate subplot.

Yes sir. I want to bring them to justice.
8

Fun and Games

Scenes 34-37 / Pages 34-37 / 40% target

32%

Bob’s life with Jesse and family shows trust and intimacy before betrayal.

I’m afraid of being forgotten. I’m afraid I’ll end up living a life like everyone else’s and me...
9

Midpoint

Scene 38 / Page 38 / 50% target

35%

The world changes when Bob and Charley kill Jesse—false victory and irreversible act.

I swear to God that I didn't.
10

Bad Guys Close In

Scenes 39-47 / Pages 39-47 / 65% target

30%

Public and family react to Jesse’s death; Frank’s trial and acquittal amplify consequences.

11

All Is Lost

Scene 54 / Page 54 / 75% target

28%

Bob admits fear and regret about killing Jesse.

He was going to kill me.
12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 60 / Page 60 / 80% target

28%

Bob receives threatening mail, isolation and danger peak.

13

Break into Three

Scene 67 / Page 67 / 85% target

28%

Nellie’s suicide pushes Bob to decisive final actions.

14

Finale

Scenes 70-71 / Pages 70-71 / 95% target

30%

O’Kelly’s plan culminates in Bob’s assassination at the club.

15

Final Image

Scene 71 / Page 71 / 99% target

30%

Bob lies dead, mirroring Jesse’s fate and closing the cycle.