Save the Cat rankings

THE BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY script analysis

THE BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

In a rural Iowa setting, Francesca Johnson leads a quiet life with her family until a chance meeting with photographer Robert Kincaid sparks an emotional affair. She wrestles with her duty to her family and the pull of passion, embarking on a journey of self-discovery. Ultimately, Francesca must decide between the life she’s known and the love she’s found.

80 Save the Cat fit score 72% analysis confidence / 44 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

85%

Opens on Francesca and Richard driving through the Iowa countryside, establishing her mundane, constrained life.

You feeling better Franny?
2

Theme Stated

Scene 4 / Page 1 / 5% target

60%

During dinner, the conversation about prize money hints at choices and personal fulfillment.

So what are you going to do with the prize money?
3

Set-Up

Scenes 1-4 / Page 1 / 10% target

80%

Introduces Francesca’s family life, her role as wife and mother, and hints at her restlessness.

4

Catalyst

Scene 10 / Page 1 / 12% target

75%

Robert Kincaid arrives, interrupting Francesca’s routine and offering a glimpse of another life.

Sorry to bother you, but I've got a feeling I'm lost.
5

Debate

Scenes 11-12 / Page 1 / 20% target

70%

Francesca hesitates but ultimately agrees to accompany Robert on his photographic journey.

6

Break into Two

Scenes 11-12 / Page 1 / 25% target

80%

She steps out of her ordinary world by boarding Robert’s truck for the first time.

7

B Story

Scene 13 / Page 1 / 30% target

78%

On the drive to Roseman Bridge, Robert shares his background, deepening their personal connection.

There's a wonderful smell about Iowa -- very particular to this part of the country. Do you know...
8

Fun and Games

Scene 15 / Page 1 / 40% target

82%

They relax over iced tea and vent about their lives, showcasing the joy and freedom of their affair.

I hate it! I hate it! I HATE IT! I hate the corn and the dust and the...
9

Midpoint

Scene 16 / Page 1 / 50% target

77%

A candid conversation over brandy about marriage and divorce marks their emotional midpoint and commitment.

Do you mind if I... ask you why you got divorced?
10

Bad Guys Close In

Scene 22 / Page 1 / 65% target

74%

Francesca wallows in self-pity and calls Richard, indicating guilt and pressure closing in.

11

All Is Lost

Scene 23 / Page 1 / 75% target

75%

Robert’s failed attempt to reach Francesca heightens tension and suggests their connection may end.

12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 24 / Page 1 / 80% target

70%

Their phone conversation underscores her conflict between passion and duty.

I would love to come for dinner.
13

Break into Three

Scene 28 / Page 1 / 85% target

76%

Francesca and Robert reunite at Cedar Bridge, resolving to face the consequences of their love.

14

Finale

Scene 43 / Page 1 / 95% target

80%

They make love again, affirming the depth of their bond despite impending separation.

15

Final Image

Scene 44 / Page 1 / 99% target

83%

Their tense breakfast conversation about the future mirrors the opening’s domestic tableau, now irrevocably changed.

I DON'T WANT TO NEED YOU!