It was a busy night at Ruth Eckerd Hall for the local premiere of Dolphin Tale 2, as stars, local luminaries and excited extras walked the blue carpet.

"It's amazing," said Dolphin Tale 2 star Cozi Zuehlsdorff, of the Clearwater fans crowded along the blue carpet to see the stars. "I feel like on the first one everyone was excited because they loved Winter, now it's exciting because they love Winter and the first movie so it's incredible!"

Nathan Gamble surveyed the crowd with appreciation.

"It's great. It's great! And I love seeing all the people that Winter has touched," Gamble said.

People like Cole Eicher.

Eicher was an extra on the movie before being diagnosed with a brain tumor. The 12-year-old from St. Petersburg says Winter's survival is an inspiration.

"Just can't wait to kick cancer's butt," said a smiling Eicher.

Finally, Dolphin Tale 2 Director Charles Martin Smith says this community has been a professional and personal inspiration.

"The entire area has been so supportive of me and the movies I'm trying to make," Smith said. "You know you kind of want to walk around, hug everybody you see on the street. It's just been a joy I can't imagine a better film making experience than right here in Clearwater."

David Yates, CEO of Clearwater Marine Aquarium wouldn't say whether fans can expect a third film, but he gave a few hints.

"I will say this much," said Yates. "We had to submit original story ideas for Dolphin Tale 2 because they are based on real life so I did that. And I do have some ideas on my my computer for a possible Dolphin Tale 3."

Clearwater Mayor George Cretekos said the impact on the local economy has been huge.

"Whether it's the aquarium, whether it's out restaurants, whether it's the jolly trolly, but more important than that it's the impact the story has of Winter and now Hope on the psyche," said Cretekos.

Once inside the sold-out crowd enjoyed a little pre-movie entertainment with local musician Caroline Kole as they waited for next chapter of Winter's story -- now with Hope.

Dolphin Tale 2 is set for nationwide release on Friday, September 12.

"I would say that it's a really nice family movie that every single person of all ages would like," said viewer Aaron Gutman.