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WORLD WAR Z script analysis

WORLD WAR Z script - Save the Cat beat sheet analysis

WORLD WAR Z follows ex-UN investigator Gerry Lane as he navigates a global zombie pandemic, balancing action-driven sequences with personal stakes. The film opens with immediate danger, escalates through worldwide containment failures, and interweaves a B-story of family survival. Gerry’s arc culminates in a revelation about defeating the infected, leading to a final push for hope.

75 Save the Cat fit score 72% analysis confidence / 39 parsed scenes

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1

Opening Image

Scene 1 / Page 1 / 1% target

60%

The cockpit sequence establishes the sudden horror of the outbreak and sets the tone.

What is going on? We might be dead-
2

Theme Stated

Scene 2 / Page 1 / 5% target

65%

The family stuck in traffic amid news reports hints at themes of chaos versus order and the fight for survival.

3

Set-Up

Scenes 1-4 / Pages 1-2 / 10% target

70%

Early scenes introduce Gerry, his family, and the global scope of the pandemic, showing stakes and characters.

4

Catalyst

Scene 2 / Page 2 / 12% target

68%

The outbreak reaches Gerry’s family in Philadelphia, forcing them to flee immediately.

5

Debate

Scene 6 / Page 3 / 20% target

72%

Gerry debates with Thierry over evacuation plans, questioning who to trust and where to go next.

I’m collecting on your debt, Thierry.
6

Break into Two

Scene 7 / Page 4 / 25% target

70%

Gerry and Karin decide to actively scavenge supplies, shifting into the ‘new world’ of survival tactics.

7

B Story

Scene 18 / Page 8 / 30% target

68%

Karin’s struggle to protect Rachel aboard the Truman provides the emotional throughline and stakes for Gerry.

8

Fun and Games

Scenes 14-17 / Pages 5-7 / 40% target

75%

Gerry’s investigation in the prison flashback showcases action set pieces and zombie lore exploration.

I see why you wanted my Medics. But why did you want us armed too?
9

Midpoint

Scene 22 / Page 9 / 50% target

73%

Meeting Warmbrumm in Jerusalem raises the stakes: there may be a defensible strategy against the infected.

Israelis accept the world as it is, Mr. Lane.
10

Bad Guys Close In

Scene 25 / Page 10 / 65% target

74%

During the Bus Land protest, escalating violence and breaches demonstrate the walls closing in on humanity.

SHUT UP! SHUT UP! NOISE IS WHAT BRINGS THEM!
11

All Is Lost

Scene 21 / Page 9 / 75% target

70%

Speke’s sacrificial death represents the darkest moment of defeat and cost.

12

Dark Night of the Soul

Scene 32 / Page 12 / 80% target

71%

Training in the Moscow subway underscores despair and questions Gerry’s ability to save anyone.

Nothing above a whisper for the rest of your lives.
13

Break into Three

Scene 37 / Page 14 / 85% target

75%

Gerry’s conversation about using cold as a weapon sparks the solution for defeating the infected.

I want more than anything to beat them. Because if I can do that I might see my...
14

Finale

Scene 38 / Page 15 / 95% target

72%

The generator room assault demonstrates execution of the new plan under extreme pressure.

15

Final Image

Scene 39 / Page 16 / 99% target

76%

The closing phone call shows Gerry’s renewed faith and the hope for his family’s survival.

I believe in God now.