Save the Cat rankings

The Irishman script analysis

The Irishman script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

An elderly Frank Sheeran reflects on his life as a mob hitman for the Teamsters and his complex relationship with Jimmy Hoffa. Flashbacks trace his rise through the ranks, the moral cost of his actions, and his final reckoning in an assisted living facility.

65 Save the Cat fit score 30% analysis confidence / 42 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

20%

Introduces old Frank in a wheelchair, setting the reflective, somber tone.

When I was young, I thought house painters painted houses.
2

Theme Stated

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 5% target

30%

Frank’s remark about painting houses foreshadows the hidden meaning of his work as a hitman.

When I was young, I thought house painters painted houses.
3

Set-Up

Scenes 3-5 / Pages 3-5 / 10% target

40%

Establishes Frank’s family life, loyalty to Bufalino, and his willingness to do jobs for the mob.

4

Catalyst

Scene 6 / Page 6 / 12% target

40%

Frank’s first meeting with Russell Bufalino initiates his deeper involvement in organized crime.

5

Debate

Scene 8 / Page 8 / 20% target

40%

Bill Bufalino warns Frank of the risks and moral compromises of mob work.

If they could prove it, all they’re going to want from you is names. Accomplices. You could keep...
6

Break into Two

Scenes 12-13 / Pages 12-13 / 25% target

40%

Frank’s first phone conversation with Hoffa marks his full entry into the Teamsters’ world.

7

B Story

Scene 24 / Page 24 / 30% target

30%

Peggy’s school presentation underscores the personal/family subplot and contrasts public image with reality.

If you have it, a truck brought it to you. This is what Mr. Hoffa says, and it’s...
8

Fun and Games

Scenes 18-22 / Pages 18-22 / 40% target

40%

Frank participates in sabotage, camaraderie with Hoffa, and the high life of union politics.

9

Midpoint

Scene 31 / Page 31 / 50% target

40%

Frank is publicly honored by Hoffa, a false victory that raises his stakes.

I’m honored to present this award - and this beautiful watch - to Frank Sheeran.
10

Bad Guys Close In

Scenes 35-36 / Pages 35-36 / 65% target

40%

Russell’s ring and warnings signal growing tension between mob loyalties and Hoffa.

There’s something else. It just got out of hand with your friend. Some people have a serious problem...
11

All Is Lost

Scene 38 / Page 38 / 75% target

40%

FBI agents confront Frank, marking his world closing in and the possible end of loyalty.

He’s dead? Who did it?
12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 39 / Page 39 / 80% target

40%

Frank’s confession with the priest exposes his guilt and regret.

You say it then (I’ll follow) -
13

Break into Three

Scene 41 / Page 41 / 85% target

30%

The priest’s absolution offers Frank a moment of clarity and resolve to face consequences.

14

Finale

Scene 42 / Page 42 / 95% target

30%

Frank is left alone, confronting the emptiness of his life choices.

His mercy endures forever.
15

Final Image

Scene 42 / Page 42 / 99% target

20%

Mirrors the opening image by showing Frank alone in his room, now at peace or resigned.