Blake Snyder

Save the Cat!

1. IDEA 1

   Films follow a structure

   Snyder, a Hollywood screenwriter, argues that successful films follow a recognisable structure. He offers tools to help writers plan screenplays that work. In his view, familiar patterns give audiences a satisfying experience, and writers can use them as a base.

2. IDEA 2

   Start with a strong logline

   Snyder argues that every film should be summarised in a single compelling sentence, a logline. If the idea cannot be stated simply, it may not work. In his view, a clear, intriguing line helps writers and buyers see the idea at once.

3. IDEA 3

   Make the hero likeable

   Snyder names his book after a scene where the hero does something kind, like saving a cat, so the audience will root for them. In his view, an early moment of warmth makes the audience care what happens next.

All 8 ideas from Save the Cat! →