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The Three Musketeers script analysis

The Three Musketeers script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

Young D’Artagnan leaves Gascony to seek his fortune in Paris, clashing with the feared Cardinal’s Guards and earning the respect of the three exiled Musketeers. Together, they rescue the Queen, thwart Cardinal Richelieu’s plots, and unite under the motto “All for one, and one for all.” Betrayals by the enigmatic Milady de Winter and a secret treaty drive their perilous journey toward a climactic siege of the King and Queen.

80 Save the Cat fit score 72% analysis confidence / 68 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

85%

A spirited dawn duel introduces D’Artagnan’s skill and the world of swordplay he inhabits.

I believe now would be a good time to end your, uhm, formal training. Well done.
2

Theme Stated

Scene 3 / Page 3 / 5% target

80%

His mother invokes the family code and legacy, hinting at honor and loyalty as central themes.

It's time for you find your fortune with men as brave and as bold as you are. In...
3

Set-Up

Scenes 1-7 / Pages 1-7 / 10% target

78%

We meet D’Artagnan, his mother, learn of the disbanded Musketeers and witness the antagonistic forces at play.

4

Catalyst

Scene 9 / Page 9 / 12% target

75%

D’Artagnan unexpectedly saves the Queen and Constance, directly entangling him in court politics.

These 'bandits' are the Queen's own bodyguards.
5

Debate

Scenes 11-13 / Pages 11-13 / 20% target

70%

D’Artagnan wrestles with joining the Musketeers as he duels Athos, Porthos, and Aramis to earn his place.

Where are they? Where are the Musketeers? I'm in the right place, aren't I?
6

Break into Two

Scene 23 / Page 23 / 25% target

74%

The newly allied four face down Jussac’s guards in battle, committing fully to their outlaw status.

Excuse me, but there are four of us.
7

B Story

Scene 18 / Page 18 / 30% target

68%

Queen Anne and Richelieu’s intrigue subplot frames the emotional stakes and D’Artagnan’s loyalty test.

Cardinal Richelieu, you surprised me.
8

Fun and Games

Scenes 31-36 / Pages 31-36 / 40% target

77%

A series of daring rescues, escapes, and comedic carriage capers showcase the Musketeers’ camaraderie and skills.

Gentlemen, your carriage. Compliments of the Cardinal.
9

Midpoint

Scene 43 / Page 43 / 50% target

80%

D’Artagnan uncovers the Cardinal’s secret treaty, raising the mission’s stakes from personal honor to national security.

The Cardinal sent someone to England. With a secret treaty.
10

Bad Guys Close In

Scenes 45-46 / Pages 45-46 / 65% target

76%

Ambushes on the road and relentless pursuit by Richelieu’s forces tighten the noose around the heroes.

Shoot low. We'll need their heads for identification.
11

All Is Lost

Scenes 57-58 / Pages 57-58 / 75% target

79%

An exhausted D’Artagnan collapses and is captured by Milady, marking their lowest point.

12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 58 / Page 58 / 80% target

75%

Awakening in Milady’s chamber, D’Artagnan realizes he’s alone and betrayed, questioning his mission.

13

Break into Three

Scenes 60-63 / Pages 60-63 / 85% target

78%

The Musketeers mount a bold shipboard rescue of D’Artagnan and expose Milady’s true identity.

You look like you've seen a ghost.
14

Finale

Scenes 65-67 / Pages 65-67 / 95% target

82%

A climactic assault on Richelieu’s stronghold sees duels, the treaty’s recovery, and Richelieu’s defeat.

This sword belongs to me.
15

Final Image

Scene 68 / Page 68 / 99% target

88%

D’Artagnan is knighted as a Musketeer, closing the journey with restored honor and unity.