Save the Cat rankings

THE LION KING script analysis

THE LION KING script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

A young lion prince Simba enjoys carefree days in the Serengeti until a hyena attack catalyzes his flight and exile. He grows up with new friends, learns to embrace his identity, and returns to challenge the usurper Scar. Along the way he faces doubt, loss, and rediscovers his destiny. Ultimately he restores balance to the Pride Lands.

65 Save the Cat fit score 12% analysis confidence / 22 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

10%

Introduces the Serengeti’s harmony and a young vulture’s envy of flight, setting an idyllic world.

When I was very, very young I envied the vultures their wings. For I felt that flight gave...
2

Theme Stated

Scene 3 / 5% target

8%

Simba’s comment hints at future growth and destiny as he plays with Daabi.

Well, not yet, but someday.
3

Set-Up

Scenes 1-2 / Page 1 / 10% target

11%

Simba and Nala play and learn about their world under Mufasa’s watch.

4

Catalyst

Scene 5 / 12% target

10%

Banagi’s attack on Simba and Nala and Mufasa’s intervention upends Simba’s safe life.

What a delightful little surprise.
5

Debate

Scene 7 / 20% target

9%

Simba and Nala discuss their concerns about their roles and the future under Mufasa.

You're not mad at me for hitting you this morning, are you?
6

Break into Two

Scene 8 / 25% target

10%

Scar’s attack forces Simba to flee, launching Act Two in exile.

7

B Story

Scene 10 / 30% target

11%

Simba meets Timon and shares fears, establishing a supportive friendship storyline.

And what are you looking for?
8

Fun and Games

Scenes 10-13 / 40% target

10%

Simba adapts to the meerkat life, learns survival drills, and later executes a plan against the eagle.

9

Midpoint

Scene 13 / 50% target

9%

Simba’s victory over the eagle marks a false win and heightens stakes for true destiny.

10

Bad Guys Close In

Scene 17 / 65% target

10%

Scar tightens control and intimidates Nala and the lionesses, raising tension.

11

All Is Lost

Scene 8 / 75% target

8%

Simba believes all hope is gone when he’s blamed for Mufasa’s fall and escapes.

12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 9 / 80% target

10%

Kwashi’s counsel in the desert highlights Simba’s despair and deliberation to run.

You must run, little one, far away.
13

Break into Three

Scene 19 / 85% target

11%

Simba and Nala strategize to exploit Scar’s weakness, initiating final resolve.

The key is to find his weakness and focus on it, to focus all our combined efforts on...
14

Finale

Scenes 20-21 / 95% target

10%

Simba traps and defeats Scar in a climactic battle, reclaiming the kingdom.

15

Final Image

Scene 22 / 99% target

12%

Simba’s coronation and the banishment of hyenas mirror the opening harmony now restored.

I banish you to the desert. And if I ever see you again I won't be so merciful....