Save the Cat rankings

THE SORCERER’S APPRENTICE script analysis

THE SORCERER’S APPRENTICE script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

Dave, a meek apprentice, stumbles into the world of sorcery when he accidentally frees an ancient villain. Under Balthazar Blake’s tutelage, he trains in magic while juggling his normal life and a budding romance with Becky. As dark forces grow stronger and the city is threatened, Dave must overcome his self-doubt to face the ultimate battle. In the end, he and Balthazar restore balance and return to running the Arcana Cabana.

80 Save the Cat fit score 65% analysis confidence / 36 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

70%

Dave’s playful bus trick introduces his world and the film’s magical tone.

Want to see some magic?
2

Theme Stated

Scene 2 / Page 1 / 5% target

50%

Becky’s quiet appreciation of art hints at balancing reality and wonder.

I love the way they float up like that. I come here a lot with my parents. I...
3

Set-Up

Scene 3 / Page 1 / 10% target

60%

Dave’s frantic chase leads him to the Arcana Cabana, setting up his ordinary world transition.

4

Catalyst

Scene 5 / Page 1 / 12% target

80%

By accidentally freeing the villain Maxim Horvath, Dave triggers the main conflict.

Bad news? You just freed Maxim Horvath, one of the deadliest sorcerers in history...
5

Debate

Scene 6 / Page 1 / 20% target

60%

Dave’s nerves are tested as Balthazar drives him, questioning if he can handle magic.

6

Break into Two

Scene 4 / Page 1 / 25% target

70%

Forced to clean the shop, Dave formally enters the magical realm.

You break that one and we both buy it. Looking for something in particular?
7

B Story

Scene 9 / Page 1 / 30% target

60%

Becky’s surprise appearance ties Dave’s personal stakes to the magical adventure.

Uncle Balthazar! Nice to meet you, Becky.
8

Fun and Games

Scene 10 / Page 1 / 40% target

60%

Dave’s training in the hidden circle showcases the promise and fun of magic.

9

Midpoint

Scene 15 / Page 1 / 50% target

80%

Horvath frees Menmet-Ra, escalating the threat and raising the stakes.

Menmet-Ra of Giza...you're looking svelte as ever. I mean to free our Queen.
10

Bad Guys Close In

Scene 18 / Page 1 / 65% target

70%

Dave and Balthazar are directly challenged by Menmet-Ra, heightening danger.

I'll give you one chance to save his life. Give me Merlin's ring.
11

All Is Lost

Scene 28 / Page 1 / 75% target

70%

Captured by the Morganians, the heroes hit their lowest point.

It took you long enough.
12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 30 / Page 1 / 80% target

60%

They witness the city under dark clouds, questioning if hope remains.

...long live the Queen.
13

Break into Three

Scene 34 / Page 1 / 85% target

60%

Arriving at the subway station, they resolve to unite and fight back.

Wraiths. This is Chernabog's work.
14

Finale

Scene 35 / Page 1 / 95% target

70%

In the climactic battle, Dave uses physics magic to subdue Chernabog and Wraiths.

Objects in motion stay in motion... unless acted upon by an opposing force.
15

Final Image

Scene 36 / Page 1 / 99% target

80%

Normalcy returns as Dave and Balthazar happily run the Arcana Cabana.