Cannabis and Movies: A Long and Storied Relationship
Cannabis and movies have been intertwined for decades.
Some of the earliest films to feature marijuana use were Reefer Madness (1936) and Marihuana (1936), both of which were intended to scare audiences away from the drug. However, as attitudes towards cannabis have become more relaxed, so too have the films that feature it.
Today, there are a wide variety of stoner movies available, from comedies like Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle (2004) and Pineapple Express (2008) to cult classics like The Big Lebowski (1998) and Half Baked (1998). What makes a stoner movie? There is no one definitive answer, but some common elements include:
- Characters who smoke marijuana
- Plots that revolve around marijuana use
- A lighthearted and humorous tone
- Visually appealing imagery
Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle movie poster. Credit imdb.com
Stoner movies often explore the effects of marijuana on the mind and body. They can be funny, thought-provoking, or just plain silly. But they all offer a unique perspective on this popular drug.
There are many reasons why people enjoy watching stoner movies. For some, it's a way to vicariously experience the effects of marijuana without actually having to smoke it. For others, it's a way to laugh at the absurdities of life. And for still others, it's a way to simply relax and enjoy a good movie.
The relationship between cannabis and movies is a complex one. On the one hand, movies can help to normalize cannabis use and reduce the stigma associated with it. On the other hand, some movies can portray cannabis use in a negative light, which could discourage people from trying it.
Ultimately, the relationship between cannabis and movies is a two-way street. Movies can influence our perceptions of cannabis but our perceptions of cannabis can also influence the kinds of movies that are made. As attitudes towards cannabis continue to change, we can expect to see even more stoner movies in the years to come.
Here are some of the ways that cannabis and movies have influenced each other:
- Stoner movies have helped to normalize cannabis use. In the past, cannabis was often portrayed in a negative light in movies. However, in recent years, there has been a trend towards more positive portrayals of cannabis use in film. This has helped to reduce the stigma associated with the drug and make it more acceptable to people who might not have otherwise considered trying it.
- Movies have influenced the way that we think about cannabis. The way that cannabis is portrayed in movies can have a significant impact on our perceptions of the drug. For example, movies that portray cannabis use in a negative light can make people more likely to believe that the drug is harmful. Conversely, movies that portray cannabis use in a positive light can make people more likely to believe that the drug is safe and enjoyable.
- Stoner movies have inspired people to try cannabis. For some people, watching stoner movies is their first exposure to cannabis. These movies can make cannabis seem appealing and exciting, which can lead people to try the drug for themselves.
Big Lebowski (1998) movie poster. Credit wikipedia.org
The relationship between cannabis and movies is a complex one, but it is clear that the two have influenced each other in a variety of ways. As attitudes towards cannabis continue to change, we can expect to see even more stoner movies in the years to come.
