Save the Cat rankings

The Conjuring script analysis

The Conjuring script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

The Warrens arrive at the Perron house to investigate supernatural disturbances, uncovering escalating paranormal attacks on the family. Lorraine’s connection to the spirits deepens through her bond with her daughter Judy and visions of past horrors. As the hauntings intensify, the team faces setbacks, culminating in a desperate final confrontation to save Carolyn and the children. The story closes on Lorraine’s continued vigilance against evil.

80 Save the Cat fit score 18% analysis confidence / 40 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

20%

Introduces the Perrons’ normal domestic life overturned by clocks stopping and unexplained bruises.

She’s out front. Why don’t you see if she’ll come in. She’s got to be hungry.
2

Theme Stated

Scene 4 / 5% target

20%

Lorraine asks April about Rory, hinting that unseen forces and belief shape reality.

Your mom and dad said you have a friend?
3

Set-Up

Scenes 1-3 / Page 1 / 10% target

20%

We meet the Perron family’s hauntings at home and the Warrens’ artifact room, establishing characters and stakes.

4

Catalyst

Scene 2 / 12% target

20%

April finds the family dog dead, marking a serious escalation.

5

Debate

Scenes 5-6 / 20% target

20%

Lorraine hesitates outside and questions Ed about the spirit at the pier, debating next steps.

6

Break into Two

Scene 7 / 25% target

20%

The Warrens decide an exorcism is needed and commit to helping the Perrons.

Lorraine and I both feel, based on what we've gathered here, that what your house needs -- is...
7

B Story

Scene 11 / 30% target

20%

Lorraine bonds with daughter Judy, receiving a locket that personalizes her fight against evil.

8

Fun and Games

Scenes 15-20 / 40% target

20%

The investigation ramps up with equipment setup and team interactions showcasing supernatural phenomena.

9

Midpoint

Scene 21 / 50% target

20%

Exploring the cellar, the team encounters direct paranormal activity, raising the stakes.

10

Bad Guys Close In

Scene 25 / 65% target

20%

Carolyn is violently attacked in bed, showing the spirits’ growing power.

11

All Is Lost

Scene 32 / 75% target

20%

Cindy disappears into a hidden room, representing the worst turn when a child is lost.

12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 35 / 80% target

20%

Lorraine realizes the witch has possessed Carolyn to kill, plunging her into despair.

Ed -- you don't get it! She possessed the mother to kill the child -- that's what she...
13

Break into Three

Scene 37 / 85% target

20%

The team decides to evacuate the Perrons, regrouping for a final push.

We got what we need. Everyone -- out.
14

Finale

Scene 34 / 95% target

20%

Ed rescues Lorraine from the witch in the cellar, defeating the main threat.

Lorraine -- I got you!
15

Final Image

Scene 40 / 99% target

20%

Judy is terrorized by Annabelle at home, showing that evil persists.