The Lone Star State’s film industry is poised for its next big leap as veteran screenwriter Chris Collins (John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum), producer Kelly McKee (Paterno, The Crow), and entertainment attorney Ken Browning join forces to launch Generator Entertainment. The new company, aimed at developing, producing, and financing action, sci-fi, and elevated horror projects, has announced an innovative partnership with the highly anticipated Hill Country Studios in San Marcos, Texas.
A Bold Vision for Genre Filmmaking
Generator Entertainment is set to bring its unique creative vision to life with a focus on high-quality projects in the $5 million to $20 million budget range. Backed by Hill Country Studios, the partnership offers a transformative model for independent genre filmmaking.
Hill Country Studios, a $267 million state-of-the-art facility under construction in San Marcos, will provide Generator with access to 12 purpose-built soundstages, four workshops, and an expansive 1,500-acre backlot. These resources will not only serve Generator’s upcoming productions but also position Texas as a top-tier destination for world-class film and television projects.
“We are thrilled to join forces with Chris, Kelly, and Ken to support Generator’s slate of innovative projects,” said Kevin Bar, COO of Hill Country Studios. “This partnership underscores our commitment to making Hill Country and Texas a global leader in film production.”
Projects Already in Motion
Generator Entertainment has wasted no time making its mark. The company has secured rights to high-profile IP, including a screenplay by an Academy Award-winning writer, which will be co-produced with Leonardo DiCaprio’s Appian Way. With two films scheduled to shoot at Hill Country Studios in late 2025 and two more in 2026, the partnership is set to hit the ground running.
The company also has its sights set on bridging global filmmaking opportunities, forging strategic alliances in Japan and Korea to acquire major IP and collaborate with premier talent.
The Right Time for Texas
Texas’ film industry is experiencing a renaissance, and Hill Country Studios is at the forefront of this evolution. Strategically located in San Marcos, the studio capitalizes on the area’s diverse topography, skilled workforce, and proximity to major cities like Austin and San Antonio. Once operational, the facility is expected to create 1,400 contract jobs and contribute significantly to the local economy, generating up to $250,000 per day during major productions.
The development has also sparked partnerships with local institutions like Texas State University, offering students internships and entry-level positions in all aspects of production, from directing and acting to set and costume design.
“This facility will attract top-tier productions while providing unmatched opportunities for the next generation of filmmakers,” said Sarah Maines, Chair of the Department of Theatre and Dance at Texas State University. “It’s a game-changer for the region.”
A New Brand in Hollywood
Generator’s founders have made it clear that they are dedicated to producing content that resonates with genre fans while fostering a new business model for independent filmmaking. Inspired by Cord Jefferson’s Oscars speech advocating for smaller-budget films over massive blockbusters, Generator aims to do just that.
“We want to work with filmmakers to create top-shelf horror, action, and sci-fi,” said the Generator principals in a statement. “With partners like Hill Country Studios, we’re committed to bringing this vision to life.”
