Save the Cat rankings

THE FAVOURITE script analysis

THE FAVOURITE script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

Abigail arrives at court as a lowly servant and quickly becomes indispensable to Queen Anne, navigating rivalries with Sarah Churchill. As Abigail’s influence grows, she faces betrayal, political intrigue, and moral compromise, ultimately seizing power herself.

42 Save the Cat fit score 12% analysis confidence / 136 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

10%

The lonely carriage journey through the countryside sets the tone of Abigail’s lowly status and solitary ambition.

2

Theme Stated

Scene 9 / 5% target

10%

Sarah’s crude commentary on court life hints at power and influence being transactional and mutable.

I didn’t know the new sewer ended in here.
3

Set-Up

Scenes 2-8 / 10% target

10%

We see Abigail’s arrival, hardship in kitchen quarters, and first interactions that establish her position and relationships.

4

Catalyst

Scene 18 / 12% target

10%

Mrs Meg sends Abigail to help the Queen, an event that begins her ascent into the royal inner circle.

5

Debate

Scenes 24-26 / 20% target

10%

Abigail’s brief flight and return illustrate her uncertainty about embracing court life versus returning to anonymity.

6

Break into Two

Scene 28 / 25% target

10%

Abigail boldly treats the Queen’s legs despite Sarah’s presence, marking her entry into the world of power.

7

B Story

Scenes 35-38 / 30% target

10%

The flirtation with Masham introduces the romantic B-story that parallels Abigail’s political maneuvering.

8

Fun and Games

Scenes 39-46 / 40% target

10%

Abigail enjoys court life and intimacy with Anne and Masham, showcasing the perks and games of power.

Mr Harley came to me. He asked me to betray your confidences.
9

Midpoint

Scenes 58-59 / 50% target

10%

Abigail’s declaration of marriage to Masham and Harley’s interrogation represent a false victory and turning point.

Have you come to seduce me or rape me?
10

Bad Guys Close In

Scenes 67-69 / 65% target

10%

Sarah’s confrontation and Harley’s sabotage of Anne’s speech tighten the pressure on Abigail and Anne’s alliance.

11

All Is Lost

Scene 81 / 75% target

10%

Sarah dismisses Abigail from service, representing her apparent defeat and lowest point.

You are dismissed from my service.
12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scenes 82-84 / 80% target

10%

Abigail fakes an injury to return, and Anne expresses her attachment, underscoring Abigail’s emotional reckoning.

I will not. I like it when she puts her tongue inside me.
13

Break into Three

Scenes 92-94 / 85% target

10%

Abigail’s plotting to poison Sarah and her renewed resolve mark her pivot to a final plan.

14

Finale

Scenes 115-123 / 95% target

10%

Sarah’s return and demand, followed by Abigail’s maneuver to have Sarah banished and Harley installed, resolve the power struggle.

15

Final Image

Scene 126 / 99% target

10%

Anne’s parliamentary proclamation of Harley as Prime Minister shows Abigail fully entrenched in the role Sarah once held.

I have. I have over the last several months been unhappy with the government. Lord Godolphin has lost...