Save the Cat rankings

THE MASK script analysis

THE MASK script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

A meek bank clerk named Stanley Ipkiss discovers a magical mask that transforms him into a manic, confident trickster. As he navigates his dual identity, he wins the heart of a singer and draws the wrath of a crime boss. When the villain strikes back, Stanley must embrace his true self to save hostages and restore order.

75 Save the Cat fit score 72% analysis confidence / 44 parsed scenes

Save the Cat is referenced as a story-analysis framework. SlugDB is not affiliated with Save the Cat or its rights holders.

1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

80%

Introduces the Vikings and the cursed box, setting tone and stakes.

Leif, let's do the deed before another night falls. The crew's near mutiny.
2

Theme Stated

Scene 2 / Page 1 / 5% target

75%

The witch declares the land cursed, hinting at consequences of meddling with forces beyond understanding.

Leave that to the Italians. We're never coming back here. Never. This land is now cursed.
3

Set-Up

Scene 4 / Page 2 / 10% target

78%

Stanley’s mundane bank job and crush on Tina are established.

4

Catalyst

Scene 8 / Page 3 / 12% target

80%

Stanley discovers the mask in the river, triggering the supernatural plot.

5

Debate

Scene 13 / Page 4 / 20% target

77%

Stanley hesitates but then tries on the mask and undergoes his first transformation.

6

Break into Two

Scene 13 / Page 4 / 25% target

75%

He fully embraces the mask persona, shifting into the story’s ‘fun’ half.

7

B Story

Scene 4 / Page 2 / 30% target

70%

Tina’s introduction begins the romantic subplot that supports Stanley’s journey.

8

Fun and Games

Scene 22 / Page 6 / 40% target

76%

The Mask’s antics interrupt a bank robbery, showcasing powers and humor.

9

Midpoint

Scene 23 / Page 6 / 50% target

74%

The Mask dances with Tina, representing a high point and false victory.

10

Bad Guys Close In

Scene 29 / Page 7 / 65% target

72%

Dorian puts a bounty on the Mask, escalating the threat.

11

All Is Lost

Scene 37 / Page 8 / 75% target

75%

Stanley is jailed, separated from mask and Tina, appearing defeated.

12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 38 / Page 8 / 80% target

73%

The casino siege deepens his despair and stakes grow deadly.

13

Break into Three

Scene 39 / Page 9 / 85% target

74%

Stanley breaks out driving the police car, resolving to act on his own.

14

Finale

Scene 42 / Page 9 / 95% target

76%

He rescues hostages and confronts Dorian in a climactic showdown.

15

Final Image

Scene 44 / Page 10 / 99% target

78%

After the explosion, Stanley returns to normal life but keeps the mask, closing the loop.