After 19 days of filming, the filming crew and cast of “The Bay” held a celebration wrap party Saturday night at the Big Tuna in Georgetown.

The filming of the eco-science fiction thriller took place throughout Georgetown County for almost two months.

Much of the filming took place on Front Street, as residents portrayed victims of a mysterious illness that afflicts the fictitious small town of Claridge, Maryland.

At least 600 people appeared for the initial casting call and many were asked to be part of the filming.

Other Georgetown residents portrayed vendors at the small-town festival, using their own tents and wares as background scenery.

“It's been very nice,'' said one crew member. “We finished filming at 8:20 a.m. on Friday.”

The weather cooperated for the most part, except for one day of monsoon-type rain that swept in during late September.

The film crew dealt with the deluge and continued filming on location, he said.

Extras who gathered at the Big Tuna Saturday included those who portrayed festival-goers and others who wore period costumes for certain scenes.

“It was good for the economy,'' said Georgetown resident Elizabeth Wolf, who portrayed a pirate during the festival scene.”

Stephanie Merrell, an extra from Charleston, said the best part of filming was getting to know the special effects crew.

“I've never done that before,'' she said.

Jennifer Burch, who was also in the film, said she was very excited to be part of the movie.

“I learned a lot about all the parts that have to come together to make a movie successful,'' said the 16-year-old from Georgetown County. “I'd like to do more work on films.”

By Kelly Marshall Fuller

Kfuller@gtowntimes.com