Save the Cat rankings

The Aviator script analysis

The Aviator script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

The Aviator follows Howard Hughes’s journey from daring filmmaker and aviator to obsessive recluse. Early scenes establish his ambition and introduction to sound films, leading to escalating risks in aviation and romance with Katharine Hepburn. His relentless drive culminates in a spectacular crash and subsequent mental decline, before a final breakthrough and a vision of his isolated future.

80 Save the Cat fit score 46% analysis confidence / 67 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

50%

Introduces Howard’s plane design obsession and film ambitions in the hangar.

2

Theme Stated

Scene 4 / Page 4 / 5% target

45%

Howard realizes audiences want sound movies, stating the film’s theme of innovation.

You see, this is what the people want. Silent pictures are yesterday's news, so I figure I gotta...
3

Set-Up

Scene 3 / Page 3 / 10% target

40%

Establishes Howard’s celebrity status and beginning hearing struggles at the wrap party.

4

Catalyst

Scene 5 / Page 5 / 12% target

50%

Mortgaging his company marks the point of no return for his film ambitions.

Mortgage Toolco. Every asset.
5

Debate

Scene 7 / Page 7 / 20% target

42%

Howard courts Katharine Hepburn, questioning if he can balance romance and his obsessions.

6

Break into Two

Scene 8 / Page 8 / 25% target

43%

Howard steps into Act Two focused on romance and new aviation projects with Kate.

7

B Story

Scene 8 / Page 8 / 30% target

44%

The romantic subplot deepens as Howard and Kate share personal stories on the golf course.

8

Fun and Games

Scene 9 / Page 9 / 40% target

45%

Showcases Howard’s aviation triumphs and big plans, like buying TWA.

I think I can do that.
9

Midpoint

Scene 14 / Page 14 / 50% target

50%

Howard sets a speed record but crashes, turning victory into crisis.

352 on the last run.
10

Bad Guys Close In

Scene 39 / Page 39 / 65% target

48%

Trippe confronts Hughes, escalating corporate and personal pressure.

How are you, Howard?
11

All Is Lost

Scene 59 / Page 59 / 75% target

47%

Howard’s obsessive rituals peak, showing utter isolation and despair.

12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 61 / Page 61 / 80% target

46%

Ava’s visit offers fleeting comfort amid his compulsive breakdown.

13

Break into Three

Scene 62 / Page 62 / 85% target

48%

Hughes testifies before the Senate, shifting into proactive resolution.

Why not tell truth for once, Senator?
14

Finale

Scene 64 / Page 64 / 95% target

49%

The Hercules maiden flight succeeds, resolving his aviation arc.

Come up front, Professor...
15

Final Image

Scene 67 / Page 67 / 99% target

50%

Flash-forward shows elderly, isolated Howard, mirroring his opening grandeur with somber solitude.

Well, I'd say the airplane seems to be fairly successful. Ladies and gentlemen, you're looking at the way...