Iconic "Big Fish" house in Alabama can be yours

The hilltop Victorian home in Wetumpka, Ala., used as a setting in the 2003 movie “Big Fish,” is on the market for $899,000.Photo byMoore Company Realty

This renowned structure is not intended for those seeking seclusion, but rather for individuals with an appreciation for history, cinema, home renovation shows, and a spectacular view. The sprawling 1874 Victorian, situated on a hill overlooking the city's commercial center, is the most iconic and well-known property in Wetumpka and is currently on the market. According to the real estate agent, this 3,754 square-foot home is ideal for a short-term rental, a wedding venue, or as a "dream residence.". It is listed at a price of $899,000. Locally known as the "Big Fish" house, it was featured as the residence of Edward Bloom (portrayed by Albert Finney) and Sandra Bloom (played by Jessica Lange) in the 2003 film "Big Fish." The movie, which was primarily filmed in South Alabama, was based on the novel "Big Fish: A Novel of Mythic Proportions" by Birmingham native Daniel Wallace. Along with Finney and Lange, the star-studded cast included Ewan McGregor, Billy Crudup, Helena Bonham Carter, Danny DeVito, and Steve Buscemi.

The house, which is currently under the ownership of Shellie Phelps-Whitfield, the director of the Wetumpka Chamber of Commerce, was put up for sale on Tuesday. The house is now listed with Moore Company Realty in Montgomery. Phelps-Whitfield mentioned that it is time for her to find a new place as her children have grown up, and she currently resides alone in the spacious property located at 401 East Bridge Street. The house sits on a one-acre lot and comes with a swimming pool.

“It is no longer the best use for it to be a one-person residence,” she said. “We’re between a rock and a river and we don’t have that many buildings downtown that are not spoken for. The best use would be for something else for people to use, or a fabulous residence, but it needs to be for more than just me.”

According to Gene Cody, the president of Moore Company Realty, the agency is extensively searching for the ideal buyers of the home. The property underwent renovations during the filming of the HGTV show "Home Town Takeover," which was hosted by Ben and Erin Napier. Cody noted that during this time, the living room was transformed to reflect scenes from the movie, complete with original shutters, wallpaper, and artwork. The listing states that the future owner will also have access to furnishings and pieces used during the HGTV staging process.