Lights buzzing and film rolling, shooting for Universal Studios' The Death and Life of Charlie St. Cloud is nearing a wrap at its Gibsons' locations.
Residents around town have been curious about the film's sets and A-list stars Zac Efron and Kim Bassinger since shooting began after Labour Day.
For the most part, filming in Gibsons has been a smooth experience, according to location manager Kirk Johns.
"It's worked out quite well." Johns said. "Everyone's been very co-operative and friendly.
Despite many young girls hanging around the set, Johns said there has been no disruption from fans eager to catch a glimpse of Efron. At times, some fans have even been allowed to approach the set for a better look - so long as they are quiet.
"When he's been available Zac's been able to sign a few autographs for people too, which is nice," Johns said.
Filming locations for Charlie St. Cloud have included Gibsons Harbour, Hopkins Landing, Gibsons Curling Club and Molly's Reach, temporarily repainted green and renamed "Flynn's Reach."
Jim Conway, assistant harbour manager for the Gibsons Harbour Authority, said despite shooting on the wharf, the filming has had little impact on the goings-on of the harbour.
"We've been able to keep our daily operations with maybe minor delays accessing the wharf head by vehicle," he said. "It's been a very positive experience. They have been extremely professional in their dealings with us and our customers."
Nancy Hache, executive director of the Gibsons Landing Business Association said she has heard almost exclusively positive things about the filming,
"I think most of us here in the Landing have all thought it was a great idea that there's movies filmed here. I think that's fabulous," she said.
Hache said despite the fact there hasn't been a boom in shopping during the filming; she believes people will be drawn to Gibsons when they see how beautiful it looks on screen. And tourists are good for business.
"I think it's really good because it's just another thing that puts Gibsons on the map. It will end up in the credits in the end of the movie That's a positive," she said.
But not every business is pleased with the filming. Peter Beauchamp, owner of Molly's Lane Market has had access to the lane cut off by the film crew's trucks.
"It has not been pleasant," he said. "With all the trucks and equipment coming and going out of the lane, no one's been able to get in or out of the lane so it's definitely killed our business."
Beauchamp said he has tried to work with the film's location managers, but he still feels the situation was handled badly by both the Town of Gibsons and the studio.
"I think when things like this happen in the community, they should discuss it with the business people before they allow it to happen," Beauchamp said.
When the film debuts next year, sharp-eyed viewers may notice Gibsons Coun. Bob Curry strutting to and fro in the background of some shots on Gibsons Harbour and in Hopkins Landing.
Curry was scouted to be an extra during a casting call after the Sea Cavalcade parade this summer. He resisted the idea at first, but found himself having headshots taken - just in case.
"They called me, so for the last two days I've walked up and down the wharf here more times in the morning than I have in 15 years," he said. "Take 15," he said imitating the director.
Curry called his foray into acting a fascinating experience, especially seeing the level of co-ordination it takes to run a film set.
Despite having to repeat his scenes "innumerable times," Curry said he enjoyed his time on the set.
He added he would like to see more filming done in Gibsons.
