Save the Cat rankings

TOY STORY 3 script analysis

TOY STORY 3 script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

Andy’s toys face an uncertain future as their owner grows up, leading Woody and the group to an adventure in Sunnyside Day Care. Betrayed by its seemingly idyllic disguise, the toys confront Lotso’s tyranny, find themselves in dire peril, and ultimately unite to return to a place where they’re loved. The story arcs from a playful opening through deep conflict to a hopeful resolution in Bonnie’s hands.

85 Save the Cat fit score 82% analysis confidence / 18 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

76%

The film opens with a Wild West train robbery play sequence that establishes the playful world of the toys.

You got a date with justice, One-Eyed Bart!
2

Theme Stated

Scene 3 / 5% target

80%

The toys discuss their future as Andy prepares for college, hinting at themes of change and belonging.

Guys, hey, hold up! We need a staff meeting! Everyone? A staff meeting!
3

Set-Up

Scene 2 / 10% target

75%

Andy plays with his toys and we see their close-knit life before the college transition.

4

Catalyst

Scene 3 / 12% target

78%

The toys realize Andy is leaving for college, forcing them to confront their uncertain fate.

5

Debate

Scene 6 / 20% target

81%

Woody argues with the group over staying at Sunnyside vs. returning to Andy.

Look, everyone, it’s nice here, I admit. But we need to go home...!
6

Break into Two

Scenes 7-8 / 25% target

79%

Woody attempts and succeeds in escaping Sunnyside to find Bonnie.

7

B Story

Scene 9 / 30% target

77%

Woody is adopted by Bonnie and bonds with her new toys, launching the emotional B-story.

A sheriff..!! Move over, Mr. Pricklepants! We have a guest!
8

Fun and Games

Scenes 4-5 / 40% target

75%

The toys enjoy Sunnyside’s promise of endless play under Lotso’s friendly facade.

Well, hello there! I thought I heard new voices! Welcome to Sunnyside, folks! I’m Lots-o’-Huggin’ Bear! But, please,...
9

Midpoint

Scene 10 / 50% target

83%

Chuckles reveals Lotso’s dark history, shifting the story to a darker, more dangerous tone.

He wasn’t anyone’s friend. He took over Sunnyside, rigged the whole system.
10

Bad Guys Close In

Scene 11 / 65% target

80%

Lotso and his lieutenants tighten their grip on Sunnyside, threatening the toys’ safety.

Rise and shine, Campers!
11

All Is Lost

Scene 15 / 75% target

82%

Trapped in a garbage truck, the toys face what seems like certain doom.

Can you hear me?! Is everyone okay?!!
12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 16 / 80% target

79%

Dumped in a vast landfill, the toys despair at their hopeless situation.

13

Break into Three

Scene 17 / 85% target

84%

The Aliens save the toys from the incinerator, inspiring their final rescue plan.

Buzz...! What do we do?
14

Finale

Scene 18 / 95% target

81%

Andy donates the toys to Bonnie, solidifying their new beginnings and unity.

Now, Woody -- he’s been my pal as long as I can remember. He’s brave, like a cowboy...
15

Final Image

Scene 18 / 99% target

78%

Woody happily settles into Bonnie’s room, mirroring the opening play with a renewed sense of belonging.