What’s at Stake? Why This Question Should Guide Every Documentary

One of the most important — and often most difficult — questions to answer early in the development of a documentary is: What’s at stake?

It sounds simple, but in practice, it can feel elusive. Especially when you’re drawn to a subject based on instinct, personality, or access — not necessarily because their story follows a neat arc. And yet, identifying the stakes is critical for shaping narrative tension, building emotional resonance, and helping your audience care.

So What Are Stakes in a Documentary?

In narrative fiction, stakes are often life-or-death, or at least deeply consequential: a character must defeat an enemy, win the game, or save a loved one. In documentary storytelling, stakes can be more subtle — but they need to be no less meaningful.

Stakes answer the question:
What does the subject stand to gain or lose? And why should the audience care?

These stakes can be external (a goal, a competition, a decision with real-world consequences) or internal (identity, self-worth, connection, transformation). Ideally, both are present.

Five Ways to Evaluate Stakes in a Documentary Story

1. Ask: What is the subject risking?

Even if your subject can't articulate a perfect origin story or "why," ask what they’re putting on the line. Time? Reputation? Relationships? Emotional vulnerability? Physical safety?

If there's no clear risk or loss, it may be hard for an audience to stay invested.

2. Look for transformation, not just goals.

Sometimes, the best way to understand stakes is to look at what might change. If your subject succeeds — or fails — what will be different in their life? Will they prove something to themselves? Reclaim part of their identity? Close a personal loop?

Transformation is often where the most powerful emotional stakes live.

3. Let the search be part of the story.

When a subject isn’t sure why something matters to them, that doesn’t mean the story is weak — it may mean the journey of discovery is the story. There’s something deeply relatable about chasing a dream without fully understanding why, and learning the answer along the way.

This approach works best when you're willing to embrace uncertainty — and edit with intention later.

4. Don’t confuse action with stakes.

Just because someone is doing something exciting or unusual doesn’t mean there are stakes. A dramatic setting or impressive skill might draw attention, but if the viewer doesn’t understand what it means to the subject, the film risks becoming flat or performative.

Dig for the emotional core behind the action.

5. Try reframing the question.

Instead of asking, “Why is this important?” try asking:

• “What would it mean if this doesn’t work out?”

• “What’s the cost of walking away?”

• “What’s the unspoken drive behind this?”

• “What’s the transformation they’re seeking?”

Sometimes stakes live in the unsaid — in the void the subject is trying to fill.

Final Thoughts: Stakes Can Emerge Over Time

When you're developing a story, it’s okay if the stakes aren’t crystal clear on Day One. Part of the documentary process is discovery. But as you begin filming, it’s essential to stay attuned to what your subject is risking, what they’re chasing, and what might change.

Because the audience isn’t just watching what your subject does — they’re watching what it means.

And meaning, in documentary, is everything.