These drapes are about as good as you're going to get regarding blackout capabilities.....unless you want uber expensive specially lined drapery.  They do let in shadows when the sun is shining directly through them.  That's why I gave the 4 star rating rather than the 5 stars.  The drapes themselves are very nice, excellent feel and they hang very well..  I'm sewing weights into the ends, but that's my preference.........you surely don't have to do that.  
Best deal for the money spent.