AfterImage and Fine Line Creative Arts Center Present

Best of Fest 2026

Join us for a lovely evening under the stars at the Fine Line Creative Arts Center in St. Charles, IL, as we present a selection of the very best short films from the 2026 edition of the AfterImage Film Festival. Shorts include:   

FRED'S BASEMENT BIJOU
In 1956, a young insurance agent from Racine, Wisconsin rescued a colossal 1920s Wurlitzer organ from Detroit's Michigan Theatre. He then spent the next five decades transforming his basement into a fully functioning movie palace.

OH WHALE
A small Oregon town, an exploding whale, and the man who made the story famous. When news anchor Paul Linnman arrived in Florence on November 12th, 1970, he had no idea that the story he was about to tell would forever define his career.

THE BAKER'S HOTLINE
A dedicated team of passionate bakers work the King Arthur Flour call center, offering expert advice and answering perplexing baking questions from an eclectic array of callers. During lockdown, calls start coming in for sourdough recipes, but really people are just looking for a connection.

PICKLE
Examining the complicated relationships humans have with animals, Amy Nicholson’s festival favorite Pickle is a film of unexpected warmth and mirth. Centering on a couple’s dedication to homing sick and deformed animals (from paraplegic possums to cross-eyed cats), Nicholson’s short may sound morbid on paper, but this documentary quickly proves to be a life-affirming watch.

Come early to secure your spot on the lawn and enjoy a variety of food for purchase from Smeauxk Craft BBQ, along with beer and wine. Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, and friends for a memorable summer night filled with delicious food, fantastic films and good company.


Event Details:

  • Date: Saturday, July 25
  • Venue: Fine Line Creative Arts Center, St. Charles, IL
  • Doors Open: 7:00 PM
  • Screening Starts: Sunset! (Approximately 8:30 PM)
  • No outside food or drink
  • Please bring chairs and blankets!
  • All tickets: $20.00

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience the magic of short films in a beautiful outdoor setting. We can’t wait to see you!

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Directions to Fine Line