If you’re looking for some thought-provoking and informative content to enjoy this spring, look no further than the world of cannabis documentaries. From exploring the medicinal properties of the plant all the way to delving into the complex history of its criminalization, there are plenty of incredible films out there that explore the world of cannabis from various angles.
Whether you’re a long-time enthusiast of the cannabis culture or simply interested in learning more about this fascinating topic, these documentaries are sure to captivate, educate, and entertain you. So, grab your favorite strain and settle in for a journey into the world of cannabis documentaries. Here are some of the best films to get you started.
1. THE UNION: THE BUSINESS BEHIND GETTING HIGH
The Union is a must-watch for anyone interested in the business of cannabis. This documentary explores the industry’s economics, including the production, distribution, and consumption of cannabis. The Canadian documentary was directed by Brett Harvey and released in 2007. The film examines the economic and social aspects of the marijuana industry in Canada, including its production, distribution, and consumption.
The documentary takes a critical look at the prohibition of marijuana and its effects on society. It explores the drug war’s impact on the criminal justice system, the medical uses of marijuana, and the economic potential of legalizing the drug.
The film features interviews with various experts, including doctors, lawyers, police officers, and activists, as well as cannabis growers and dealers. It presents a well-rounded and informative look at the subject, highlighting benefits and drawbacks of marijuana use.
2. GRASS IS GREENER
This documentary, available on Netflix, explores the history of cannabis in America and its cultural impact. The Grass is Greener takes a deep dive into the history and cultural impact of cannabis in America.
The film is directed by Fab 5 Freddy, a rapper and artist who has been involved in the hip-hop scene since the 1980s. The documentary features interviews with musicians like Snoop Dogg, Chuck D, and Damian Marley, who share their experiences with marijuana and its influence on music.
It also features commentary from historians, activists, and experts who explore the plant’s impact on society, particularly within the African American community. The documentary examines the racial disparities in the enforcement of drug laws and the impact of the War On Drugs, especially on people within communities of color. It explores how the criminalization of marijuana has been used to target and incarcerate black and brown people disproportionately.
3. MURDER MOUNTAIN
Murder Mountain is a true-crime documentary series on Netflix that delves into the dark side of the cannabis industry in Northern California. The series takes place in Humboldt County, a rural area known for its marijuana farming and notorious for its illegal marijuana cultivation.
The series centers around the disappearance of Garret Rodriguez, a young man who traveled to Humboldt County to work in the cannabis industry. As the investigation into Rodriguez’s disappearance unfolds, the documentary explores the dangerous world of illegal marijuana farming, including the violence, corruption, and exploitation that can occur in this largely unregulated industry.
4. AMERICAN DRUG WAR 2: CANNABIS DESTINY
American Drug War 2: Cannabis Destiny is a follow-up to the popular documentary, American Drug War, which examined the impact of the War On Drugs on American society. The documentary explores the changing attitudes towards cannabis in the US and the growing movement to legalize the drug. The film examines the political and economic forces behind the push for legalization, as well as the obstacles that advocates have faced in their efforts to change the law.
In addition to exploring the social and political aspects of cannabis legalization, the film also delves into the science behind cannabis and its potential medical benefits. The documentary features interviews with doctors, researchers, and patients who discuss the drug’s potential uses in treating various medical conditions. The film is available to stream on Amazon Prime.
5. SUPER HIGH ME
Super High Me is a funny and informative documentary that provides a unique perspective on the impact of marijuana use on comedian Doug Benson. The film plays on the popular fast food documentary Super Size Me. It follows Benson as he abstains from marijuana use for 30 days and then smokes marijuana every day for the next 30 days to compare the effects on his body and mind.
The documentary follows Benson as he undergoes various medical and psychological tests to monitor the impact of his marijuana use. It also features interviews with medical professionals, politicians, and other comedians who share their perspectives. Throughout the film, Benson provides an entertaining and humorous look at the impact of marijuana on his life. He discusses how it affects his work, relationships, and general well-being.
The documentary also explores the social and political implications of marijuana use and the ongoing debate surrounding legalization. In general, Super High Me offers a mix of humor and education, encouraging viewers to think critically about the issue of marijuana legalization and its effects on society. The film is available on various streaming platforms, including Amazon Prime and YouTube.
6. LYNCHING CHARLIE LYNCH
Lynching Charlie Lynch is a powerful cannabis documentary that tells the story of Charles C. Lynch, a medical marijuana dispensary owner in California who was prosecuted by federal authorities despite operating legally under state law. Directed by Rick Ray, the film shines a spotlight on the complex legal landscape surrounding cannabis lifestyle in the United States, especially during the early years of medical marijuana legalization.
The documentary follows Lynch’s trial and examines the conflicts between state and federal law, highlighting how dispensary owners who were following California’s legal guidelines were still vulnerable to federal prosecution. The film features interviews with legal experts, activists, and Lynch himself, painting a vivid picture of the struggles faced by early entrepreneurs in the cannabis industry.
Lynching Charlie Lynch raises important questions about the fairness of the legal system and the need for reform, particularly in how cannabis laws are enforced. The documentary exposes the discrepancies in how different levels of government approach cannabis regulation, making it a must-watch for those interested in the legal and political battles that have shaped the cannabis industry and the role of cannabis lifestyle in the broader society.
7. CULTURE HIGH
Culture High is one of the must watch cannabis documentaries that takes a deep dive into the debate surrounding cannabis legalization. Directed by Brett Harvey, the documentary serves as a sequel to The Union: The Business Behind Getting High, expanding on the themes of the original film and offering a comprehensive look at the global war on cannabis. It explores the political, social, and economic forces driving the continued prohibition of marijuana, as well as the growing movement toward cannabis legalization.
Featuring interviews with celebrities like Joe Rogan, Snoop Dogg, and Sir Richard Branson, along with doctors, researchers, and former law enforcement officials, Culture High presents a well-rounded perspective on the cannabis industry. The documentary also delves into the hypocrisy and corruption associated with anti-cannabis policies, exposing how big industries and political agendas have influenced public perception and legislation, especially around cannabis oil and other derivatives.
8. ROLLING PAPERS
Rolling Papers is a unique documentary that tells the story of how cannabis legalization transformed the journalism landscape. Directed by Mitch Dickman, the film follows Ricardo Baca, a journalist who became the world’s first marijuana editor at The Denver Post after Colorado legalized recreational cannabis in 2014. The documentary provides an insider’s look at how media companies navigated covering the cannabis industry, including the challenges of balancing factual reporting with a topic that was still considered controversial.
The film highlights the importance of accurate and reliable journalism in an emerging industry that was previously shrouded in stigma and misinformation. It explores the growing pains of legalization, from product quality control to advertising regulations, while showing how cannabis lifestyle and culture coverage opened new doors for the media industry. Rolling Papers emphasizes how vital responsible reporting is, especially when discussing cannabis oil, edibles, and other emerging products in the market.
9. WEEDIQUETTE
Weediquette is one of the best cannabis documentaries hosted by Krishna Andavolu that explores various aspects of cannabis lifestyle and culture and its intersection with different social issues. Available on Viceland, the series covers a range of topics, from the medicinal benefits of cannabis oil to its use in the criminal justice system and the growing legal industry.
Each episode of Weediquette takes a deep dive into a specific theme, such as how cannabis is helping veterans cope with PTSD, the challenges faced by children who use medical marijuana to treat seizures, and the impact of cannabis legalization on marginalized communities. Andavolu’s empathetic and investigative approach provides viewers with intimate and insightful stories about how cannabis affects real people’s lives, making it more than just a cannabis documentary—it’s a social commentary.
CONCLUSION
Cannabis documentaries comprehensively examine the social, cultural, and political implications of marijuana use and legalization. Whether you’re a seasoned cannabis enthusiast or simply curious about the topic, these films are a must-watch.
And when it comes to experiencing the best of cannabis culture, there’s no better place to go than Inyo Fine Cannabis Dispensary, your go-to destination for top-quality products, unbeatable deals, and exceptional service. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, their knowledgeable staff will help you find the perfect product to enhance your cannabis journey. So, don’t wait any longer to explore the world of cannabis – watch these documentaries and visit Inyo Fine Cannabis Dispensary today to elevate your experience to a new level.
