Good Morning Glenn,
I usually use lighting effects to add a spotlight or effect to a video. The Brightness and contrast control under color correction is in my opinion a much faster and easier way to brighten a scene that is too dark in all portions of the clip. Levels and luminence controls are also helpful. Make sure that you clicked on the Transform icon next to lighting effects to display the adjustment handles and Center circle.
Good luck and please let me know if you have more questions,
Michael
Michael Colten
Northeast Video Productions