Save the Cat rankings

THE SIXTH SENSE script analysis

THE SIXTH SENSE script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

A struggling child psychologist, Malcolm Crowe, takes on a mysterious boy, Cole, who confesses he sees dead people. As Malcolm and Cole bond through sessions, Malcolm confronts his own past failures while Cole learns to help trapped spirits find peace. A final twist reveals Malcolm himself is among the dead, allowing him to reconcile with his wife before moving on.

35 Save the Cat fit score 12% analysis confidence / 86 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

10%

Introduces Malcolm’s home life tone and ominous atmosphere in the basement.

2

Theme Stated

Scene 2 / Page 1 / 5% target

10%

Dialogue about framing hints at perception and how we ‘frame’ reality.

That's one fine frame. A fine frame it is.
3

Set-Up

Scenes 1-8 / Pages 1-8 / 10% target

11%

Establishes Malcolm’s career, marriage distance, and his interest in Cole’s case.

4

Catalyst

Scene 3 / Page 1 / 12% target

12%

Vincent Gray’s break-in reminds Malcolm of his failure and sets him on a redemptive path.

5

Debate

Scene 4 / Page 2 / 20% target

13%

Malcolm hesitates but decides to investigate the new, strange case of Cole after reviewing files.

6

Break into Two

Scene 5 / Page 2 / 25% target

12%

Malcolm formally begins sessions with Cole, entering the ‘upside-down’ world of ghosts.

My name is Dr. Malcolm Crowe. I was supposed to meet you today.
7

B Story

Scene 11 / Page 3 / 30% target

10%

Malcolm’s attempts to reconnect with his wife underscore the emotional subplot.

8

Fun and Games

Scenes 10-14 / Pages 3-4 / 40% target

13%

Various sessions with Cole showcase Malcolm using tricks and building trust.

You have a secret. But you don't want to tell me.
9

Midpoint

Scene 31 / Page 4 / 50% target

15%

Cole plainly reveals “I see dead people,” turning the story toward its supernatural core.

I've decided we shouldn't schedule sessions anymore. I'll just follow you around.
10

Bad Guys Close In

Scenes 37-42 / Pages 5-6 / 65% target

14%

Ghost manifestations intensify, straining Cole’s psyche and Malcolm’s methods.

11

All Is Lost

Scene 32 / Page 4 / 75% target

11%

Malcolm’s tape declares he’s “not helping him,” signifying his professional despair.

I'm not helping him.
12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 44 / Page 6 / 80% target

12%

Malcolm and Anna argue, showing his personal life in shambles.

I WON'T GIVE COLE A CHANCE TO SAY THOSE WORDS TO ME! I WON'T!
13

Break into Three

Scene 53 / Page 7 / 85% target

13%

Malcolm articulates a new plan to help Cole and his wife, readying for resolution.

My goal is to speak to my wife. The way she and I used to speak. Like there...
14

Finale

Scenes 81-82 / Page 8 / 95% target

14%

Cole begins communicating honestly with his mother; Malcolm faces his fate.

I'm ready to communicate with you now.
15

Final Image

Scene 86 / Page 9 / 99% target

11%

Malcolm’s tender farewell to Anna completes his arc and closes the emotional frame.

You were never second... Ever.