Cannabis has been a fixture in film for decades, inspiring some of the most memorable comedies and thought-provoking dramas in cinema history.
Cannabis and cinema have always been close partners. From the haze-filled comedy of Cheech & Chong to the stoner philosophy of The Big Lebowski, these films don't just feature cannabis — they've shaped how generations think about the plant.
Here are ten films every cannabis enthusiast should add to their watchlist.
1. Up in Smoke (1978)
The one that started it all. Cheech Marin and Tommy Chong's debut film is the grandfather of stoner cinema. Two aimless burnouts drive a van made entirely of cannabis across the border. It's absurd, quotable, and still holds up nearly five decades later. If you haven't seen it, you haven't done your homework.
2. Friday (1995)
Ice Cube and Chris Tucker sitting on a porch in South Central LA — that's the whole movie, and it's perfect. Friday turned a lazy afternoon into a cultural touchstone. Craig and Smokey's misadventures are endlessly rewatchable, and the film launched a franchise that proved you don't need explosions to make a classic.
3. The Big Lebowski (1998)
The Dude abides. The Coen Brothers gave us Jeffrey Lebowski: unemployed, White Russian-drinking, joint-smoking, bowling enthusiast. What starts as a case of mistaken identity spirals into one of the most beloved cult films ever made. The rug really tied the room together.
4. Dazed and Confused (1993)
Richard Linklater's love letter to the last day of school in 1976 Texas is packed with future stars (Matthew McConaughey, Ben Affleck, Milla Jovovich) and an era-defining soundtrack. The film captures the freedom and restlessness of youth, with plenty of parking lot sessions and keg parties along the way.
5. Half Baked (1998)
Dave Chappelle leads a crew of friends who start selling weed to bail their buddy out of jail. It's a love letter to cannabis culture wrapped in late-'90s comedy. The "enhancement smoker" monologue alone earns its place on this list.
6. How High (2001)
Method Man and Redman play two stoners who get into Harvard after smoking a magical strain grown from their deceased friend's ashes. It's ridiculous in the best way possible, blending hip-hop culture with absurdist comedy.
7. Pineapple Express (2008)
Seth Rogen and James Franco turn a simple weed deal into a full-blown action comedy. The film elevated the stoner movie into new territory — car chases, explosions, and a surprisingly heartfelt bromance. The strain itself became legendary.
8. Smiley Face (2007)
Anna Faris delivers an underrated performance as an aspiring actress who eats an entire plate of cannabis cupcakes and spends her day spiraling through increasingly absurd errands across Los Angeles. Directed by Gregg Araki, it's smarter and stranger than most stoner comedies.
9. Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle (2004)
What begins as a simple quest for burgers becomes a commentary on race, identity, and the American dream — all filtered through a cloud of smoke. John Cho and Kal Penn's chemistry carries the film, and Neil Patrick Harris steals every scene he's in.
10. Grass Is Greener (2019)
This Netflix documentary traces the history of cannabis in America through the lens of race, music, and politics. From jazz clubs in Harlem to the War on Drugs, it's an essential watch for anyone who wants to understand why legalization matters and how deeply cannabis is woven into American culture.
Honorable Mentions
A few more worth your time: Kid Cannabis (2014), based on a true story of teen weed smugglers; The Culture High (2014), a documentary examining prohibition; and Mac & Devin Go to High School (2012), starring Snoop Dogg and Wiz Khalifa.
The Takeaway
Cannabis cinema isn't just about getting high — it's about community, rebellion, and finding humor in everyday life. These films reflect the culture that B-Real and Dr. Greenthumb's have been part of for over 30 years. Roll one up, pick a title, and enjoy.