I'm too hot. Solar control window film or thermal blinds?

Has anyone got experience choosing and installing solar control window film? Does it work? Does it make your window's look like a drug dealer's BMW? Do your houseplants die from lack of natural light? Is it very expensive to get a decent film?

Would heat-absorbing blinds be a more effective way to cool the place a bit?

I'm new to this home-owning lark so all advice appreciated, thank you.