Co-Presented by
the Long Island Gay & Lesbian Film Festival

Ira Sachs‘ searing drama chronicles an emotionally and sexually charged journey of two men in New York City through love, friendship, and addiction

Members: $10 • Public: $15
Includes Reception

Tickets also at 800-838-3006, or CAC Box Office

Keep the Lights On chronicles an emotionally and sexually charged journey of two men in New York City through love, friendship, and addiction. Documentary filmmaker Erik (acclaimed Danish actor Thure Lindhardt in his first leading role in a U.S. film) and closeted lawyer Paul (Zachary Booth, Damages) meet through a casual encounter, but soon find a deeper connection and become a couple. Individually and together, they are risk takers—compulsive, and fueled by drugs and sex. In an almost decade-long relationship defined by highs, lows, and dysfunctional patterns, Erik struggles to negotiate his own boundaries and dignity while being true to himself. Keep the Lights On is shot with a grainy beauty that resonates with the texture of New York City, accentuated by disco beats and a mournful cello, both from musician Arthur Russell’s eclectic catalog. Director Ira Sachs’ fearlessly personal screenplay is anchored by Lindhardt, who embodies Erik’s isolation and vulnerability with a gentle presence. Harrowing and romantic, visceral and layered, Keep the Lights On is a film that looks at love and all of its manifestations, taking it to dark depths and bringing it back to a place of grace. (USA, 2012, 102 mins., color, 35mm, Rated R – Director/Writer: Ira Sachs – Cast: Thure Lindhardt, Zachary Booth, Julianne Nicholson, Paprika Steen – Winner Teddy Award: 2012 Berlin Film Festival – 2012 Sundance Film Festival – 2012 Tribeca Film Festival)

“The look, mood and rhythm of the film are exquisitely, even thrillingly authentic.” – A.O. Scott, NEW YORK TIMES

“Lindhardt pushes the picture into realms of such exposed intimacy, you almost feel like you’re dating him yourself.” – Elizabeth Weitzman, NEW YORK DAILY NEWS

“Lindhardt, sweet and childish and achingly vulnerable, gives a stunning performance.” – Owen Gleiberman, ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY

“Sachs creates an intensely intimate stew of fear, anger, longing, and regret.” – Nick Schager, VILLAGE VOICE

“A harsh yet delicate tale of two New Yorkers whose co-dependent relationship is fueled by sex, drugs and complex longings for companionship.” – David Lewis, SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE

“A gritty, devastating melodrama that chronicles an intense, complex, and heartrending relationship over the course of a decade.” – Tirdad Derrakhshani, PHILADELPHIA INQUIRER

“A heart-breaking love story and call for emotional transparency in relationships.” – Liam Lacey, GLOBE AND MAIL