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TIN CUP script analysis

TIN CUP script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

Roy “Tin Cup” McAvoy is a talented but reckless golf pro whose obsession with high-risk shots and gambling keeps him stuck at a local driving range. When he falls for therapist Molly and decides to challenge the U.S. Open, he must overcome his own self-destructive tendencies to grow both as a golfer and a man.

60 Save the Cat fit score 40% analysis confidence / 146 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

50%

The film opens on Tin Cup attempting a heroic but ill-fated shot, immediately establishing his reckless approach.

Romeo! It's been awhile. Is Tin Cup around?
2

Theme Stated

Scene 2 / Page 1 / 5% target

30%

Commentators note the highs and lows of the game, hinting that true success requires balance between trust, touch, and letting go.

Number one is the winner! Dewey has the winner. Pays five to two!
3

Set-Up

Scene 3 / Page 1 / 10% target

45%

We see Tin Cup’s daily life at the driving range, his relationships with Romeo and Molly, and his resentment toward polished tour pros.

4

Catalyst

Scene 4 / Page 1 / 12% target

50%

Molly arrives to take lessons, introducing a new stake in Roy’s world beyond gambling and lone practice.

You amuse me, Roy. But I'm the only woman in America born after World War II who thinks...
5

Debate

Scene 5 / Page 1 / 20% target

50%

Roy debates whether to keep chasing impossible shots into the water or settle for safer play as he hits again and again.

The doctor's a woman.
6

Break into Two

Scene 10 / Page 1 / 25% target

50%

Roy commits to enter the U.S. Open despite warnings, stripping himself of security to prove his worth.

It's none of your fucking business, Roy.
7

B Story

Scene 6 / Page 1 / 30% target

45%

Roy’s relationship with Molly deepens as she gives him a lesson and he begins to care about more than his own ego.

The golf swing is a poem.
8

Fun and Games

Scene 8 / Page 1 / 40% target

45%

Roy’s unconventional matches and daring shots against Boone showcase his flair and gamble-driven style.

This is how you think you can settle up? By deeding me your driving range?
9

Midpoint

Scene 21 / Page 1 / 50% target

50%

Roy pulls off an improbable 16th-fairway shot, a false victory that gives him confidence but raises the stakes.

Well, since you're the authority, How'd you like to teach me how to be what I ain't and...
10

Bad Guys Close In

Scene 23 / Page 1 / 65% target

45%

Simms fires Roy, confronting him with the reality that his style may cost him relationships and opportunities.

This time'll be different. I promise.
11

All Is Lost

Scene 12 / Page 1 / 75% target

50%

After scoring poorly, Roy signs his card and realizes he’s lost everything—his clubs, status, and chance at glory.

Get your hands off her ass, Roy.
12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 31 / Page 1 / 80% target

40%

Roy confesses his vulnerabilities and love for Molly during a late-night conversation at the range.

13

Break into Three

Scene 13 / Page 1 / 85% target

45%

Simms offers Roy a spot as his caddie in a charity event, giving Roy a new purpose and chance at redemption.

I mean it's open. Anyone's got a shot at it. You just gotta get past a local and...
14

Finale

Scene 79 / Page 1 / 95% target

40%

Roy gambles on the final hole at Pine Hills, first dunking his ball then heroically saving par, proving he’s learned to balance risk and skill.

15

Final Image

Scene 90 / Page 1 / 99% target

35%

In the wake of the tournament, Roy and Molly discuss their future together, closing on a note of growth and hope.