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THE KING'S SPEECH script analysis

THE KING'S SPEECH script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

Stuttering Prince Albert “Bertie” struggles with public speaking until he enlists unconventional speech therapist Lionel Logue. After initial conflict, their bond deepens through humorous and painful exercises. Bertie’s confidence climaxes when he overcomes his stammer to rally the nation.

90 Save the Cat fit score 30% analysis confidence / 90 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

50%

Bertie emerges in slow motion from a bathtub—a striking visual that introduces his vulnerable, awkward state.

2

Theme Stated

Scene 17 / Page 1 / 5% target

40%

King George V emphasizes command and voice: Bertie’s stutter prevents him showing authority—introduces theme of finding one’s voice.

Show who's in command. If you don't, this devilish device will change everything. Used to be, all a...
3

Set-Up

Scenes 2-5 / Pages 1-2 / 10% target

50%

We meet Bertie’s self-consciousness, family dynamics, and public expectations leading to the looming Wembley speech.

4

Catalyst

Scene 6 / Page 2 / 12% target

60%

Bertie’s disastrous Wembley address, freezing under pressure, kick-starts his journey to seek help.

Ten million people listening around the world, Mam. Possibly more. His brother, and father, have been broadcasting since...
5

Debate

Scenes 9-12 / Pages 3-4 / 20% target

50%

Bertie and Elizabeth consider treatment; Lionel’s methods and unorthodox reputation give pause before deciding.

6

Break into Two

Scene 24 / Page 4 / 25% target

60%

Bertie meets Logue in consultation—commits to Act Two by entering the therapist’s unconventional world.

7

B Story

Scene 15 / Page 5 / 30% target

40%

Lionel’s own struggles as an actor auditioning mirror Bertie’s vulnerability and establish his personal stakes.

8

Fun and Games

Scene 53 / Page 6 / 40% target

70%

Logue’s angry swearing exercises reveal comedic training montages and progress toward overcoming the stutter.

You could've refused. Don't you know any rude words?
9

Midpoint

Scene 64 / Page 7 / 50% target

60%

David’s abdication broadcast shocks Bertie and the nation—a false high that tests Bertie’s resolve.

10

Bad Guys Close In

Scene 70 / Page 8 / 65% target

60%

Bertie stumbles on oath delivery at the Accession Council, his confidence faltering under scrutiny.

My Lords, members of the Accession Council, I meet you today in circumstances which are without parallel in...
11

All Is Lost

Scene 73 / Page 8 / 75% target

60%

Bertie doubts his ability to lead, asking Logue how he can believe he’s king—lowest emotional point.

What's the one essential thing a King must do? He must believe he is King. How can I...
12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 84 / Page 9 / 80% target

60%

Bertie confronts Logue in Westminster Abbey, feeling exposed and questioning the entire therapy.

This is not a rehearsal, "Doctor" Logue.
13

Break into Three

Scene 86 / Page 9 / 85% target

50%

They rehearse the war speech, marking Bertie’s decision to face his fear and step into his role.

14

Finale

Scenes 88-90 / Pages 10-11 / 95% target

70%

Bertie delivers his stirring wartime broadcast to the nation, fully overcoming his stutter and fulfilling his duty.

this message spoken with the same depth of feeling for each one of you as if I were...
15

Final Image

Scene 90 / Page 11 / 99% target

50%

The praise from church and family underscores Bertie’s triumph and contrasts the opening vulnerability.

Couldn't have said it better myself.