a documentary is a story

You don't need a script, you can just get lucky - like Hoop Dreams or Capturing the Friedmans.

You might be able to win some awards on a doc about a pumpkin patch - but I doubt you would get many viewers, unless you get real lucky.

Luck is created by the prepared.

No telling what sort of audience the pumpkin patch doc might have. A documentary is a story. Are you a good storyteller? Is there a compelling story in the patch? The subject matter alone is not enough to judge by.

How compelling can a grade school spelling bee be? And we all know how that one turned out.

Lettre de Siberia
 

Richard Gooderick.... I have enjoyed your sharing this documentary with me, to whom do I send it next?

Richard was there really a successful doc about a grade school spelling bee?

'Akeelah and the Bee' - a successfull FICTIONAL NARRATIVE was supposedly inspired by a couple of different docs on the subject. SO bittersweet for the doc makers, money in the bank for the filmmakers.

'Mad Hot Ballroom' is probably a better example of how a doc like that can be successful.
Mad Hot Ballroom (2005)

Brian - if you still want to see this film please could you contact Chris. I haven't received any contact details from you.
Chris - I've only just found your posting by accident. I'm glad you enjoyed the film.