Watch High: The True Tale of American Marijuana

High: The True Tale of American Marijuana is a 2008 documentary film that explores the history of marijuana in the United States. The film is directed by John Holowach, and features interviews with experts, lawmakers, activists, and ordinary citizens who have been affected by the drug. The film takes a critical look at the controversial topic of marijuana use and legalization, examining the various arguments for and against it. The documentary is divided into several sections, each of which focuses on a different aspect of the marijuana industry and its impact on American society.

The first section of the film explores the history of marijuana in the United States, from its beginnings as a commodity crop to its designation as a dangerous drug in the early 20th century. The film examines the social and racial biases that influenced the criminalization of marijuana, and the political forces that have kept it illegal for so long.

The second section of the film focuses on the medical uses of marijuana. The documentary showcases several patients who have used marijuana to manage chronic pain and other symptoms, and explores the challenges they face in accessing the drug. The film also examines the role of activists, doctors, and lawmakers in advocating for the legalization of medical marijuana.

The third section of the film takes a look at the business of marijuana, both legal and illegal. The documentary explores the profits of the marijuana industry, and examines the problems associated with illegal drug trafficking. The film also delves into the complex regulatory issues surrounding legal marijuana, including taxation, quality control, and licensing.

The fourth section of the film looks at the cultural impact of marijuana, from its portrayal in popular media to its influence on music, fashion, and art. The documentary examines the ways in which marijuana has been a part of American counterculture, and explores its significance as a symbol of rebellion and freedom.

Throughout the film, viewers are introduced to a variety of colorful characters, each with their own unique perspective on the marijuana issue. The documentary features interviews with activists like Ricardo Cortes, who created an illustrated children's book about marijuana, and scientists like Lyle Craker, who has been fighting for years to gain permission to grow research-grade marijuana for medical studies.

The film also showcases the experiences of ordinary citizens who have been affected by the marijuana laws, including a young man serving a lengthy prison sentence for a nonviolent marijuana offense, and a small-time marijuana grower facing steep fines and possible jail time. These personal stories help to humanize the issue of marijuana legalization, and provide a powerful argument for change.

Overall, High: The True Tale of American Marijuana is a thought-provoking and informative documentary that sheds light on a complex and controversial issue. The film presents a balanced view of the marijuana debate, and invites viewers to consider the social, economic, and medical implications of legalizing the drug.

High: The True Tale of American Marijuana is a 2008 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.6.