I used a clear film ('energy film') that supposedly blocked 97% of UV rays and provided some degree of insulation on a couple of transoms in our kitchen a few years ago that I bought at home depot... it actually stayed up very well over the years... was pretty inexpensive as I recall.

Thanks busybee, I'll definitely take a look. Did it darken your room very much? Did you install it yourself or have professionals do the job?

I got UV blocking window film--one window's film is starting to deteriorate now 14 years on, likely because that window is open most of the summer--dew maybe is getting to the film.

Didn't notice any significant darkening, though the rooms are very bright due to large windows facing south.

Does not help with heat at all. If you want heat reduction the solar shade must be on the OUTside of the window. Once the heat is in the house, it's in the house.

I installed it myself pretty easily, but I was only working with small transom windows-- I'm sure very large windows would be more awkward.
it did not darken the room at all and I don't think there would have been any significant (if any all) darkening even if I covered all of the window with it.

Thanks for the replies. You both have helped me to revisit the idea of window film -- actually new windows and then window film. I've just ordered window panels which has led to the window dilemma. Custom rods couldn't be ordered until I know the window size. My home has the original builder grade aluminum windows. Since the bank acct. is dwindling, I could just change out the living room windows for now and put film on them. Me thinks I'm talking myself into doing it the right way the first time.