The Blueprint Every Christian Writer Should Know Before They Write Their Next Story

Welcome back to Christian Story Lab! 

Last Thursday, Hollywood screenwriter Todd Tucky joined me in a live workshop to unpack the exact formula behind most blockbuster movies.

The replay (and all past workshops) is available to everyone in the Lab if you missed it.

Today, we’re diving into one of Hollywood’s favorite tools: Blake Snyder's Save the Cat framework.

This 15-beat story structure has shaped countless iconic films and Christian writers have a lot to gain from understanding how stories are built.

So, let’s break down the beats of Save the Cat through the lens of one of the greatest movies ever made.

I recommend grabbing a copy of Save the Cat if you want the full deep dive.

Save the Cat Story Structure

The [bracket number] is literally the page in the script where this beat should be happening.

1. Opening Image [1]
A small Rebel ship flees from a massive Imperial Star Destroyer. This opening shot immediately sets the stakes: rebellion vs. oppression, the underdog vs. the overwhelming force.

• Lesson for us: Your first impression matters. Use it to set the tone and hint at the stakes of your story.

2. Set-Up [1-10]
Enter Luke Skywalker, a restless farm boy stuck on a dusty planet. He dreams of adventure but feels trapped in his ordinary life.

• Lesson for us: This is where readers meet your protagonist and get a glimpse of their struggles. Ground your characters in relatable desires and frustrations. Make your readers care.

3. Theme Stated [5]
“The Force surrounds us... it binds the galaxy together.” Obi-Wan introduces the idea of something bigger. In this case, it’s faith, connection, and purpose.

• Lesson for us: What’s the deeper truth your story is exploring? Introduce it early, even subtly, to set the foundation for the story ahead.

4. Catalyst [12]
Luke finds Leia’s message and returns to discover his family tragically killed by the Empire. It’s the push he needs to leave his old life behind.

• Lesson for us: Every story has that moment of no return. What’s the moment in your story where the character is forced to move? These turning points often echo God’s call in our own lives.

5. Debate [12-25]
Luke hesitates, unsure if he’s ready to take on the Empire. Obi-Wan challenges him to trust in something greater.

• Lesson for us: Doubt is a powerful way to show growth. Whether it’s fear, insecurity, or uncertainty, let your protagonist wrestle with their call.

6. Break Into Two [25]
Luke finally leaves Tatooine, stepping into the unknown with Obi-Wan and Han Solo.

• Lesson for us: The second act begins here and is the body of the journey. This is where characters enter the unfamiliar.

7. B Story [30]
Han Solo’s arc begins, showcasing his shift from a self-centered smuggler to someone who ultimately puts others first.

• Lesson for us: B Story (secondary arc) is a great place to weave in your story’s theme. Who else can reflect the truths your protagonist is learning?

8. Promise of the Premise [30-55]
Adventures aboard the Millennium Falcon, escaping stormtroopers, and rescuing Princess Leia deliver everything we want from a rustic space adventure.

• Lesson for us: Give your readers what they came for. This is where your story’s heart shines. Whether it’s adventure, drama, or something else, make sure this section pays off.

9. Midpoint [55]
Victory turns to loss as Obi-Wan sacrifices himself, shifting Luke’s motivation from personal adventure to a more significant cause.

• Lesson for us: The midpoint is where things get real. External stakes rise, but internal stakes should shift, too.

10. Bad Guys Close In [55-75]
The Death Star looms, the Rebel base is in jeopardy, and the enemy seems unbeatable.

• Lesson for us: This is where your protagonist feels the weight of their journey. Put your character in a tree and set the tree on fire.

11. All is Lost [75]
The Rebel base is discovered. The Empire is closing in. All hope seems lost.

• Lesson for us: Let your hero reach the bottom. It’s often in these moments that bigger themes of grace, love, sacrifice, and trust break through.

12. Dark Night of the Soul [75-85]
Luke grieves the loss of Obi-Wan and questions his ability to lead.

• Lesson for us: Allow for reflection here. This is where characters—and readers—realize what’s truly at stake.

13. Break Into Three [85]
Luke trusts the Force and leads the mission to destroy the Death Star.

• Lesson for us: This is the decision point where new insight leads to action.

14. Finale [85-110]
Luke uses the Force, destroying the Death Star and saving the Rebellion.

• Lesson for us: The finale ties it all together. For us, it’s an opportunity to reflect God’s truth in action and resolution.

15. Final Image [110]
The Rebel Alliance celebrates. Luke transformed from a farm boy to a hero.

• Lesson for us: End with transformation. Where your character is at the end of your story should quite literally be the opposite of where they started.

When should writers use the Save the Cat method?

Anytime you need a storytelling compass.

Here is how I use it:

• Outlining: Build a solid foundation for my story in the early stages.

• Revising: Compare my draft to the beats, fix weak spots, and refine my structure.

• Troubleshooting: Get unstuck when a plot or character arc isn’t working.

• Testing Ideas: Quickly sketch out beats to see if a new concept has potential.

You can find a full breakdown of 6 other story structures here.