Crane Creek Film Launches in Brevard County With VIP Events April 11

Honors Local History and Introduces Major Motion Picture Production

HGMi Studios, in partnership with METCA, Inc., is proud to announce the official launch of the Crane Creek film journey—an epic post-Civil War historical drama set to begin production in 2027. With a $7 million budget and a commitment to shoot right here in Brevard County, the production is expected to bring both cultural recognition and significant local impact.

BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA — HGMi Studios, in partnership with METCA, Inc., is proud to announce the official launch of the Crane Creek film journey—an epic post-Civil War historical drama set to begin production in 2027.

With a $7 million budget and a commitment to shoot right here in Brevard County, the production is expected to bring both cultural recognition and significant local impact.

To introduce the project, HGMi Studios is hosting two exclusive events on Friday, April 11th: the VIP Honor Breakfast and the Crane Creek Cocktail Reception.

These events will bring together Brevard County’s civic leaders, business influencers, and community partners to highlight the true story behind Crane Creek—rooted in the courage of three emancipated men who founded Melbourne, Florida.

“This isn’t just another film,” says Mark Spates Smith, Executive Producer of Crane Creek.

“It’s an American story. A true one that most people have never heard. We’re talking about three men who were once enslaved, who came here after the Civil War and built something lasting. That’s the heart of this film. A screenplay that includes a love story, a war story. An epic film, indeed. Over the next two years, we’ll be based in Melbourne as we prepare for production. This is where the journey begins.”

The VIP Honor Breakfast, set for 8 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. at Vertex Applied Innovation Hub, is a private event that will recognize three local leaders whose contributions echo the legacy of Melbourne’s founders. To be considered for an invitation to the breakfast, email msmith@hgmistudios.com.

The Crane Creek Cocktail Reception, set for 6:30 p.m. at Gleason Performing Arts Center at Florida Tech, is open to the public and will feature live music, red carpet moments, and an exclusive preview from the Crane Creek screenplay.

Tickets for the Cocktail Reception can be purchased HERE.

“This story has been waiting to be told,” says Dr. Teri Jones, the historian whose research inspired the screenplay. “It’s history that was almost forgotten, and now we have the chance to honor the people who built this community from the ground up.”

About Crane Creek

A major motion picture project inspired by the true story of Melbourne’s first Black settlers—three emancipated slaves who founded the Crane Creek settlement following the Civil War. The film explores themes of resilience, vision, and legacy, offering a powerful and untold chapter in Florida’s and American history.

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