Lights

About This Movie

Lights is a fascinating little gem shot by Marie Menken, focusing on the ephemeral beauty of New York's holiday window displays. The way she captures the glow and reflections, especially with the city as a backdrop, is quite striking. The film's pacing is deliberately slow, almost meditative, allowing you to really soak in the visual feast. There’s something haunting about the early morning hours, with the streets almost deserted, lending an eerie yet enchanting atmosphere. Menken's practical approach—filming under her coat to protect the camera from the cold—adds a layer of intimacy to the work, making it feel very personal and raw. It's a unique study in light and shadow, a testament to both the city and the season.

Lights has had a somewhat limited release and is not widely circulated, making it a curious piece for collectors. Its format history is sparse, having been shown mostly in niche screenings and art house venues. The scarcity of prints, especially in good condition, adds to its appeal, as does the growing interest in experimental films from the 1960s. Collectors often seek it out for its unique approach to both subject matter and technique.