Save The Cat!
Characters
Before The Script
Save the Cat Again
The Essential Questions to Telling a Story
100
This is the very first beat, where the world of the protagonist is introduced.
What is the Opening Image?
100
This is the term for a past wound or trauma that subconsciously drives a character’s choices and worldview.
What is the Ghost?
100
Sometimes confused with a logline, this witty slogan advertises a finished film to moviegoers
What is a tagline?
100
This beat shows a dramatic event or disruption that kicks the story into motion.
What is the catalyst?
100
This question suffers from main character syndrome.
Who is it about?
200
The final beat, which reflects the protagonist’s transformation
What is the final image?
200
This is what a character consciously believes will solve their problem or make them whole—often tied to status, love, or power.
What is the Want?
200
[protagonist] + [inciting incident] + [protagonist’s goal] + [central conflict]
What are the 4 elements of a logline
200
This is the section after the catalyst where the hero isn't sure if they should go on the adventure
What is the debate?
200
Without this question, there's no forward motion, everyone gets along and the story is boring.
What is conflict?
300
This is where the hero is at their lowest point
What is "All is Lost"?
300
This is what a character must realize or embrace in order to grow, often hidden beneath what they think they want.
What is the Need?
300
A frightened, withdrawn Philadelphia boy who communicates with the dead seeks the help of a disheartened child psychologist.
What is Jaws 2
300
in this beat there’s usually a false victory or defeat.
What is the midpoint?
300
This question explores the internal or external obstacle standing in the character’s way.
Why can't they get it?
400
Despite its name this section doesnt always have to be a happy one.
What is "Fun and games?"
400
According to Aaron Sorkin, every great scene boils down to a character wanting something and something standing in their way.
What are Intention and Obstacle?
400
You should make one of these BEFORE you write the script.
What is a beat sheet?
400
The number of "beats" in the Save The Cat system.
What is 15?
400
This question examines the actions a character takes to overcome their conflict.
What do they do about it?
500
A rocket booster to get us past the 1st act break in a feature film
What is the B Story
500
In Legally Blonde, Elle Woods states this clearly: “I’m going to Harvard Law.” According to this approach, this kind of statement is key for the audience to connect with the story.
What is the Goal (or Want)
500
What is a log line?
500
This is the term Snyder uses for a moment early in the story when a character earns the audience’s affection.
What is "Save the Cat?"
500
Pick a number between 1 and 10.
What is 5?