Fiscal Sponsorship & Mission
They Wait is fiscally sponsored by the Southern Arizona Film Society, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting underrepresented filmmakers and promoting diversity, inclusivity, and authentic storytelling in cinema. The Society believes that powerful stories can come from every community, and that Indigenous filmmakers, in particular, bring unique voices and perspectives too often missing from the screen.
We are proud to stand behind Diné filmmaker David J. Aberle, whose work embodies the Society’s mission to uplift borderlands and Indigenous artists through mentorship, production support, and access to professional opportunities. All contributions to They Wait are 100% tax-deductible, with every dollar going directly to support the filmmaker and the completion of the film. By donating, you are not only helping to bring this project to life, you are actively investing in a more inclusive future for independent film.
Why “They Wait” Matters
Indigenous voices are largely absent from mainstream horror. They Wait is a supernatural thriller grounded in Indigenous teachings about the sacred power of words and the consequences of broken promises. When Michael, a desperate grandfather, makes a careless plea to ancient spirits, he unleashes a force that can’t distinguish guilt from innocence. Inspired by the dread of Poltergeist and The Exorcist, but told through a Native worldview, this film will be shot in high‑contrast black and white with practical effects to give it the textured, visceral feel of classic horror.
A Proven Team
Director David J. Aberle, a Diné filmmaker and Indigenous medicine person, has already delivered award‑winning work on tight budgets. His shorts Death Mask (six festival selections), Finding Fire (five selections and two nominations) and Saving Clementine (six awards at the University of Arizona showcase) demonstrate that our team knows how to finish projects and get them seen. For They Wait, we’re looking to attach Emmy‑winning actor Craig T. Nelson (Poltergeist, Coach) as Michael, and Jon Proudstar (Reservation Dogs, Young Guns II) as the Boss. Our cast and crew are majority from unrepresented community backgrounds, ensuring authenticity on screen and behind the camera.
Where Your Money Goes
To reach Hollywood‑quality on an indie budget, we’re seeking $6,000. Every dollar will be spent transparently on:
Production – Camera, lighting and sound equipment; dressing our boardroom, motel and suburban house locations.
Cast & Crew – Fair wages for Indigenous and local talent.
Costumes & Practical Effects – Designing and fabricating the four ancient spirits using prosthetics, traditional materials and wardrobe.
Post‑Production – Editing, sound design, colour grading and music to maximise tension and emotion.
Marketing & Distribution – Festival submission fees, promotional materials and screenings to ensure the film reaches a wide audience.
Why Donate Now
We begin shooting October 31, 2025. By contributing today, you become part of a project that’s pushing Indigenous horror into the spotlight and creating opportunities for Native artists. Even if you can’t donate, sharing this campaign with your network helps tremendously.
Every prayer, every whisper and every dollar brings They Wait closer to life. Ahe’hee’ (thank you) for supporting Indigenous storytelling and helping us break new ground in horror.