Story Research Consultants

Something Big and Important is a story development research consulting group for filmmakers. Research we conduct is both about the possible content of stories (e.g., the psychology of main characters, the philosophies of possible themes, practical details about settings and situations) and about the reactions of intended audiences to the stories (e.g., concept testing, test screenings).

Our mission is to provide insights and ideas developed through in-depth research that will help filmmakers in creating stories that matter to their audiences.

Justin B. Poll, PhD, Founder

Justin is a research psychologist, story research consultant, and screenwriter based in Utah.  With graduate degrees in educational and counseling psychology (from Boston College and Brigham Young University respectively), he has, by day, spent nearly 20 years researching ways to create supports that can engage people in healthy and meaningful life efforts and, by night (and on weekends, and by train to and from work), spent nearly that long researching ways to create stories that can engage and impact people toward such healthy and meaningful lives.  So far, this research has informed development of the comedy film EVERYTHING YOU WANT (2005), films by other indie writers/producers that have yet to be produced, and one (and a half) of his own screenplays.