Save the Cat is a comprehensive suite of resources and tools designed to help writers develop and structure their screenplays, novels, and other creative projects. Here’s an overview of what the product offers and its key features:
What is Save the Cat!
Save the Cat is based on the bestselling book by Blake Snyder, a successful Hollywood screenwriter. The method is centered around a 15-beat story structure that has been widely adopted in the film and writing industries.Key Features and Functionality
The 15-Beat Structure
The core of Save the Cat is the Blake Snyder Beat Sheet, which outlines 15 key plot points that form the backbone of a successful story. These beats include:- Opening Image
- Theme Stated
- Set-up
- Catalyst
- Debate
- Break into Two
- B Story
- Fun and Games
- Midpoint
- Bad Guys Close In
- All is Lost
- Dark Night of the Soul
- Break into Three
- Finale
- Final Image.
Story Development Tools
- Save the Cat Beat Cards: These cards provide writers with the 15 key plot points to map out their script or novel. Each set contains individual index cards with explanations of each beat, helping writers form the foundation of their story.
- Save the Cat Scene Cards: These cards help writers outline every scene, ensuring each communicates “place,” “basic action,” “emotional transformation,” and “outcome.” The cards are color-coded by act and include extra cards for flexibility.
Online Courses
- Cracking the Beat Sheet Online Course: This course is designed to help writers turn their ideas into movies or novels. It provides a step-by-step guide to creating a compelling story using the 15 beats, with examples from popular movies and homework assignments to reinforce learning.
Software
- Save the Cat Story Structure Software: The PRO Edition of this software allows writers to work across multiple seasons or sequels of TV series, film franchises, or novels. It features a focused layout to track characters, relationships, key objects, and overall storylines. The software is particularly useful for developing and tracking character arcs and other important elements across an entire series.
Books and Workshops
- Best-Selling Books: The original book by Blake Snyder, along with sequels like Save the Cat Strikes Back and Save the Cat Writes for TV, provide in-depth guidance on screenwriting and story structure.
- Workshops and Story Coaching: Save the Cat offers workshops and coaching services to teach writers the fundamentals and mechanics of plot and character transformation.
Benefits
- Structured Approach: The 15-beat structure and associated tools help writers create a clear and compelling narrative.
- Flexibility: The software, cards, and courses are designed to be adaptable to various writing projects, including screenplays, novels, and TV series.
- Practical Examples: The resources include numerous examples from successful films and stories, making the concepts more accessible and easier to apply.
- Community Support: The Save the Cat community and resources provide ongoing support and guidance for writers at all levels.