The City Dark uncovers the myriad effects that human’s ability to light up the night has had on everything from migratory birds to urban and rural crime to sea turtles to humans (yes, us, too) – whether our breasts and prostates to our fundamental connection to the universe. After watching this film, I promise that you will think differently about our boastful consumption of energy to keep our cities bright 24/7 and will want to run from floor to floor of every office building in your town flipping off light switches. (Or perhaps propose a useful city ordinance like those mentioned in the film?) You’ll also appreciate the efforts of lighting designers like Herve Descottes (hint: the High Line in New York does more than just look hip). The City Dark allows you to look at the night sky from both directions – from earth, where some of us have never seen a REAL night sky, and down to earth, where you can see just how much we’re changing the small corner of the universe in which we live.
Oh, and one more thing, if you work the night shift, you REALLY should see this film.