Save the Cat rankings

THE QUEEN script analysis

THE QUEEN script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

The film opens with Britain’s political transition before pivoting to the royal family’s struggle over Princess Diana’s tragic death and the ensuing public fallout. The Queen grapples with tradition versus public expectation, while Tony Blair navigates political optics. Ultimately, the monarch adapts, delivering a unifying royal address and restoring stability.

75 Save the Cat fit score 52% analysis confidence / 87 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

60%

Establishes Buckingham Palace and the national election context, symbolizing the old order.

2

Theme Stated

Scene 2 / Page 1 / 5% target

45%

Subtle shift hinted in palace: “Have you voted yet?” suggests change and questioning authority.

Have you voted yet, Mr Crawford?
3

Set-Up

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

58%

Introduces Queen, Blair’s victory, and initial protocol tensions over the PM appointment.

No, no, no. It's usual for ME to ask the questions.
4

Catalyst

Scenes 7-9 / Pages 3-4 / 12% target

65%

News of Diana’s death shocks palace; critical inciting event forcing action.

I've just spoken to our Ambassador in Paris, Ma'am. I'm afraid it's not good news.
5

Debate

Scenes 10-14 / Pages 4-6 / 20% target

60%

Royal Family debates public versus private response to Diana’s death.

I hope you told her to come back? Cut the holiday short?
6

Break into Two

Scenes 28-29 / Page 12 / 25% target

50%

Blair and Campbell confirm a public funeral, shifting into Act Two’s new world.

So it's decided? It's going to be a public funeral.
7

B Story

Scene 37 / Page 16 / 30% target

48%

Cherie and Tony debate monarchy’s role, offering personal stakes and supporting theme.

A bunch of freeloading, emotionally retarded...nutters.
8

Fun and Games

Scenes 38-40 / Pages 17-18 / 40% target

55%

Playful clashes over flag protocol and public reaction showcase palace-vs-political comedy.

Robin had a call from the Prime Minister. Who expressed his concern. The flag above Buckingham Palace. He...
9

Midpoint

Scene 51 / Page 23 / 50% target

70%

Queen’s car stuck in river, a public humiliation and literal low point marking reversal.

Hello? Could you put me through to the Ghillies' office? Hello, Thomas? I'm afraid I've done something very...
10

Bad Guys Close In

Scenes 58-60 / Pages 27-28 / 65% target

60%

Negative headlines and polling data threaten the monarchy’s relevance.

11

All Is Lost

Scene 58 / Page 27 / 75% target

50%

Queen alone reading hostile press, feeling isolated and under siege.

12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 63 / Page 30 / 80% target

58%

Queen debates value gap with Queen Mother, questioning her purpose.

When you no longer understand your people, isn't it time to hand over to the next generation?
13

Break into Three

Scene 65 / Page 31 / 85% target

55%

Charles supports Queen’s decision to return to London—pivot to final act.

I just want to say - I admire... I think it's the right decision. Let's hope we haven't...
14

Finale

Scenes 79-81 / Pages 36-37 / 95% target

65%

Queen’s televised address and Diana’s funeral unify nation, resolving conflict.

We have all been trying in our different ways to cope. The initial shock is often succeeded by...
15

Final Image

Scenes 85-87 / Pages 38-39 / 99% target

60%

Queen and Blair walking together symbolize restored rapport and forward motion.

For about half an hour. But then you came down to London and all that went away.