Save the Cat rankings

Ultimo Tango a Parigi script analysis

Ultimo Tango a Parigi script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

The film follows Jeanne, a young woman seeking independence, who enters into an intensely physical but emotionally detached relationship with the grieving Paul. Their fluid dynamic is punctuated by moments of playful intimacy and violent outbursts, while Jeanne’s prospective marriage to filmmaker Tom serves as a contrasting B story. As Paul’s instability escalates, Jeanne attempts to escape, culminating in a fatal confrontation. The final image leaves her rehearsing an alibi, underscoring the tragic fallout of their destructive bond.

75 Save the Cat fit score 70% analysis confidence / 48 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

70%

Paul’s distressed posture under the bridge establishes the bleak tone and introduces the protagonist’s emotional state.

Oh my god, I've never...
2

Theme Stated

Scene 3 / 5% target

65%

Jeanne tells her mother she’s found a flat—hinting at themes of autonomy versus entanglement.

Mama? Yes, it's Jeanne. I've found a flat to rent in Passy. I'm going to see it.
3

Set-Up

Scenes 1-4 / Page 1 / 10% target

60%

We meet Jeanne navigating Paris, securing an apartment, and intersecting with Paul, setting up character goals and stakes.

4

Catalyst

Scene 6 / 12% target

60%

Paul and Jeanne depart separately after their first sexual encounter, marking the inciting event that binds them.

5

Debate

Scene 10 / 20% target

65%

Paul clashes with Rosa’s mother over funeral rites, reflecting his emotional paralysis and inciting conflict.

Something that would explain... A letter, a clue.
6

Break into Two

Scene 12 / 25% target

60%

Paul’s outburst to curious neighbors signals his crossing into a darker, more obsessive phase.

7

B Story

Scene 14 / 30% target

65%

Tom’s filming of Jeanne and their personal history introduces the subplot about love and commitment.

It's not a wig, it's my hair. Doesn't it suit me? Tell me, don't you like it? Tell...
8

Fun and Games

Scene 19 / 40% target

60%

Paul’s abrupt departure and slamming of the door exemplify the film’s provocative gamesmanship and tension.

9

Midpoint

Scene 25 / 50% target

65%

Tom’s proposal on camera marks a false victory for Jeanne’s new life, contrasting with Paul’s neglect.

Because you're angry, or you want to be alone with me?
10

Bad Guys Close In

Scene 31 / 65% target

60%

Paul’s taunting intimidation with a dead rat shows his jealous, menacing escalation.

11

All Is Lost

Scene 36 / 75% target

60%

Paul’s silent return to a packed room symbolizes his emotional nadir and separation from Jeanne.

12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 38 / 80% target

65%

Jeanne’s frustration at the concierge epitomizes her helplessness as Paul vanishes from her life.

I told you, I don't know anyone. They come and go. The man on the fourth, the woman...
13

Break into Three

Scene 41 / 85% target

70%

Their cryptic dialogue on the bridge—‘It’s over, then it begins again’—signals a final attempt at reconciliation.

It's over, then it begins again.
14

Finale

Scene 45 / 95% target

70%

The desperate chase up the stairwell culminates in violence, resolving the tragic arc.

Help! Help me! Help!
15

Final Image

Scene 48 / 99% target

70%

Jeanne rehearses her alibi, closing the story on the aftermath of their destructive liaison.

I don't know who he is. He followed me in the street. He tried to rape me. He's...