Save the Cat rankings

WIN WIN script analysis

WIN WIN script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

Mike Flaherty’s routine life as a family man and lawyer is disrupted when he takes on guardianship of elderly Leo Poplar, leading to unexpected challenges and new responsibilities. As Mike juggles his marriage, work, and surprisingly talented grandson Kyle’s wrestling career, conflicts arise over money, loyalty, and family ties. Ultimately, Mike must reconcile his motives and learn what truly matters.

40 Save the Cat fit score 12% analysis confidence / 120 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

10%

Establishes Mike’s ordinary world jogging at dawn, underscoring his routine life.

2

Theme Stated

Scene 3 / Page 1 / 5% target

10%

Abby’s innocent question about croquet hints at playfulness and balance in family life, foreshadowing Mike’s need to balance responsibilities.

Mommy, can we play croquet today?
3

Set-Up

Scenes 2-6 / Pages 1-5 / 10% target

10%

Introduces family dynamics—Jackie, Abby, Stella—and Mike’s workaday routine and stress.

4

Catalyst

Scene 20 / Page 5 / 12% target

10%

Mike decides to pursue guardianship of Leo, setting the new story in motion.

Hi, honey. I'm still at the office. Yeah. I came back after practice, I'll be home in a...
5

Debate

Scene 31 / Page 6 / 20% target

10%

Jackie confronts Mike about guardianship, highlighting uncertainties and conflict at home.

Let's go, Mr. Mayor. It's cold and I need to pick up some bagels for your mom's.
6

Break into Two

Scenes 23-24 / Pages 6-7 / 25% target

10%

Courtroom decision forces Mike and Leo to elder care facility, marking entry into Act II.

Any word from his daughter? Mr. Flaherty?
7

B Story

Scenes 33-36 / Pages 7-9 / 30% target

10%

Introduction of Kyle, Leo’s grandson, and Kyle’s arrival sets up the emotional/genesis subplot.

This is Kyle Timmons, Leo. He's your grandson. He came from Ohio to see you.
8

Fun and Games

Scenes 52-60 / Pages 12-14 / 40% target

10%

Mike integrates Kyle into wrestling practice and family life, showing early successes and bonding.

Last time I checked we haven't won a match! Right coach?!
9

Midpoint

Scenes 81-82 / Page 20 / 50% target

10%

Kyle wins the district tournament, high point of emotional journey; stakes are real.

10

Bad Guys Close In

Scenes 90-94 / Pages 22-24 / 65% target

10%

Cindy arrives with attorney demanding Leo back, threatening Mike’s arrangement and Kyle’s future.

Hi Cindy. Hi, I'm Mike Flaherty.
11

All Is Lost

Scenes 99-100 / Page 25 / 75% target

10%

Kyle is disqualified at regionals and cries, and Cindy asserts custody, leaving Mike powerless.

I don't want to go with her. I don't.
12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scenes 102-103 / Page 26 / 80% target

10%

Mike and Terry lament lost opportunity and Mike’s mother’s return, he feels he’s failed everyone.

We were right there, Mike. Right fucking there. And now we have nothing. Nothing!
13

Break into Three

Scenes 108-110 / Pages 28-29 / 85% target

10%

Confrontation at Leo’s triggers emotional reckoning; Mike admits financial motives, ready to fight.

Because I needed the money! We needed the money.
14

Finale

Scenes 116-117 / Page 31 / 95% target

10%

Court resolution solidifies Mike’s commitment; he negotiates with Cindy to keep Kyle and Leo safe.

Hi. Is your deal still available?
15

Final Image

Scenes 118-119 / Page 32 / 99% target

10%

Life returns to normal at the Flaherty home, contrasting the opening image’s routine with deeper family bonds.