David J. Aberle

David J. Aberle is a Diné (Navajo) director, producer, and editor from northern Arizona whose work blends traditional knowledge with modern cinematic storytelling. Currently earning his BFA in Film & Television at the University of Arizona, Aberle is committed to bringing authentic Indigenous voices into the horror film and television landscape.

With several short films on the festival circuit and more in development, he continues to refine his craft across directing, producing, and editing—using the edit bay not just as a creative strength but as a path into the industry’s larger opportunities. His latest project, the Indigenous horror short They Wait, expands his vision for culturally grounded genre filmmaking. (Follow the project at They_Wait_Film on Instagram.)

Beyond his work in film, Aberle is the author of The Journeys of a Young Spirit: Abalone Parts I & II, with additional books underway that further explore the worlds and stories he seeks to share.

Aberle is also known as "The Native Exorcist," and founder of Unearthing the Supernatural, a groundbreaking Indigenous paranormal investigation group. Using sacred songs, languages, and ceremonial practices (with elder permissions and cultural safeguards), the team documents spiritual encounters through an Indigenous lens, capturing experiences unlike anything else in the paranormal field. Their work has been featured on Ghost Adventures, Unidentified with Demi Lovato, and other major platforms.

Aberle’s mission remains clear: to bring Indigenous storytelling, supernatural knowledge, and cinema together in ways that honor tradition, elevate representation, and push the horror genre forward.