David Midell

David Midell

David Midell is an Independent Spirit and NAACP Image Award-nominated filmmaker known for his work exploring the lives of vulnerable individuals and challenging societal perceptions. He began his career drawing inspiration from working as a therapist for children and adults with disabilities in Chicago. As a filmmaker on the autism spectrum, his work often delves into how society treats its most vulnerable, including those with disabilities and mental health challenges. His debut feature film, "NightLights" (2014), followed a sister and brother with autism, earning numerous awards including a Prism Award. Midell's critically acclaimed follow-up, "The Killing of Kenneth Chamberlain" (2019), tells the true story of the events leading to the death of Kenneth Chamberlain Sr., an elderly African American veteran with bipolar disorder, during a conflict with police officers. This film garnered significant recognition, including a Gotham Award for Outstanding Lead Performance for its lead actor, Frankie Faison, and multiple Independent Spirit Award nominations. Midell's most recent work includes "The Ritual" (2025), a supernatural horror film based on a documented exorcism. He also has producer credits on films such as "Forever Mine" (2022) and "The Fare" (2018), and the TV series "Grounded" (2022).

Person History