Cannabis has been lighting up the big screen for decades, playing the role of rebel, relaxer, and everything in between. Whether it’s sparking up laughs in a comedy or adding depth to a gritty drama, weed in films often brings an extra vibe that ranges from hilariously wild to surprisingly deep.
In this journal, we’re rolling through some of the most unforgettable cannabis moments in movie history. We’ve got a mix of the iconic, the unexpected, and even a few “what if?” scenes that might just change how you see these films. So, kick back, pop a gomita, and join us as we explore 25 of the best weed scenes in cinema.
Stoner Movies, Cinematic Gems, and Getting High on Screen
There’s a little bit of everything in this list. Classic stoner movies, dramas where cannabis is painted in a darker light, and some films where maybe the lead characters should have been smokin’ some grass instead of drinking that “milk plus” if you get what we’re saying.
Anyway…here’s our list. Maybe you’ll find an old (or new) favorite hiding in here.
Cheech and Chong’s Up in Smoke, 1978
The scene where Cheech and Chong drive a van made entirely of marijuana is iconic. As they inadvertently hotbox themselves, their hilariously mellow reactions set the tone for stoner comedies for decades to come. It’s a pioneering moment in cannabis cinema.
American Beauty, 1999
The scene where Lester Burnham buys cannabis from his neighbor Ricky is subtly powerful. It marks a turning point in Lester’s mid-life crisis, where he begins to reclaim his independence and happiness. The calm, confident exchange between the two characters shifts the typical narrative around cannabis use.
Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle, 2004
The cheetah ride scene is pure stoner fantasy. After getting high, Harold and Kumar ride a cheetah through the woods, embodying the wild, imaginative escapades that often accompany a good cannabis session. The sheer absurdity and joy of the moment make it a standout.
The Big Lebowski, 1998
The dream sequence where The Dude hallucinates while bowling is surreal and visually stunning. His trip, fueled by a joint and a White Russian, takes him through a series of bizarre and entertaining vignettes. The Coen Brothers’ unique blend of humor and psychedelia shines here.
Lords of Dogtown, 2005
In this film about the rise of skateboarding culture in the 1970s, there’s a scene where the Z-Boys share a joint after a day of skating. The moment captures the raw, rebellious spirit of the era, with cannabis serving as a symbol of the counterculture that the skaters embodied. It’s a laid-back, authentic portrayal of how cannabis was intertwined with youth and surf culture during that time, adding depth to the characters’ bond and the story’s overall vibe.
Jackie Brown, 1997
In Quentin Tarantino’s crime drama, the character Ordell Robbie, played by Samuel L. Jackson, casually smokes cannabis while discussing business. The scene portrays cannabis use as part of the character’s daily routine, avoiding the typical comedic or paranoid portrayal and instead adding spunk and charm to his personality.
Smiley Face, 2007
The scene where Jane accidentally eats an entire plate of pot brownies sets off a series of hilarious misadventures. Her increasingly erratic behavior and paranoia make for a comedic portrayal of being way too high. Anna Faris’s performance is both funny and endearing.
The Gentlemen, 2019
This crime film features an impressive scene where Mickey Pearson, a cannabis kingpin, negotiates the sale of his empire. The polished, high-stakes environment, combined with Pearson’s sophisticated demeanor, presents cannabis in a more glamorous, business-oriented light.
Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, 1998
The scene where Raoul Duke and Dr. Gonzo encounter a circus of hallucinations in their hotel room is a trippy masterpiece. While not solely focused on cannabis, the mix of substances they consume leads to a visually striking and chaotic sequence. It’s a wild ride through their altered perceptions and weed is about the most grounded substance consumed in this film.
Human Traffic, 1999
A British film that explores a weekend in the lives of five friends, it features a memorable scene where the group smokes cannabis before a night out. The honest depiction of their conversations and bonding over shared experiences gives a more realistic view of cannabis as part of youth culture.
Dope, 2015
In this coming-of-age film, high schooler Malcolm accidentally ends up with a bag of drugs, including cannabis. The scene where he tries to navigate this situation is tense and humorous, blending the realities of teenage life with the challenges of unexpected responsibility.
Reefer Madness, 1936
Though intended as anti-cannabis propaganda, the scene where characters go wild after smoking weed is now seen as campy and humorous. The exaggerated portrayal of cannabis effects is so over-the-top that it’s become a cult classic among stoner films.
Midsommar, 2019
In this super unsettling horror flick, the characters are handed some hallucinogenic tea during a weirdly cheery Swedish festival. Now, they’re not smoking weed, but let’s just say, things get seriously trippy. Imagine if they’d just passed around a joint instead—maybe they’d be lying in the fields, soaking up the sun, instead of diving headfirst into all that creepy cult stuff. Sometimes, sticking with the mellow vibes could save you from a whole lot of nightmares.
The Beach, 2000
While not entirely focused on cannabis, the scene where the characters discover a hidden cannabis plantation on a secluded island is visually striking. The lush, idyllic setting contrasts with the underlying dangers, reflecting the duality of cannabis cultivation and its impact on the characters’ utopian dreams.
Easy Rider, 1969
In this iconic road movie, there’s a memorable scene where Wyatt and Billy share a joint around a campfire with George Hanson, played by Jack Nicholson. It’s a moment of connection, as they talk about freedom, America, and the changing times. The scene captures the spirit of the 60s, where cannabis was as much about cultural rebellion as it was about relaxation. It’s a classic moment that blends counterculture vibes with deep conversation, making it a standout in the film.
Pineapple Express, 2008
In this iconic scene, Dale and Saul share a cross-joint, which Saul proudly claims he invented. The scene is both hilarious and absurd, highlighting the duo’s comedic chemistry and the sheer novelty of the cross-joint. It’s a standout moment that perfectly captures the film’s blend of action and stoner comedy. This whole movie is a hilarious stoner film, with the title named after a popular sativa strain.
Horrible Bosses, 2011
In this dark comedy, there’s a hilarious scene where Nick, Dale, and Kurt accidentally get high after mistaking a box of cocaine for cannabis while trying to plant drugs in their boss’s house. The scene spirals into chaos as they begin to lose control, becoming increasingly paranoid and erratic. The mix-up and their bumbling attempts to maintain composure while high provide a perfect blend of physical comedy and sharp dialogue, making it one of the film’s standout moments. Definitely should have stuck with the cannabis.
Half Baked, 1998
This is perhaps the most quintessential stoner movie of all time. The scene where Thurgood, Brian, and Scarface break into the lab to steal weed is a classic. Their clumsy and paranoid antics while trying to execute the heist are both funny and relatable for anyone who’s ever been too high. The humor is enhanced by the exaggerated stakes and their bumbling teamwork.
Friday, 1995
Smokey and Craig’s porch scene is legendary. As they smoke a joint and reflect on their lives, the dialogue is sharp and hilarious, perfectly capturing the laid-back vibe of a stoner hangout. Chris Tucker’s energetic performance as Smokey makes this scene unforgettable.
Knocked Up, 2007
The scene where the friends debate the best use of chairs while high is a slice of stoner life. Their mundane conversation turns into a philosophical debate, showcasing how cannabis can make even the simplest topics endlessly fascinating. It’s relatable and funny.
A Clockwork Orange, 1971
In this trippy, dystopian flick, Alex and his crew sip on “milk-plus,” a drug-laced concoction that sends them on violent rampages. Now, here’s a thought—what if they’d just stuck with weed instead? Maybe they’d be chilling out with some snacks instead of causing chaos. The film doesn’t feature cannabis, but it’s fun to imagine how things could’ve been a lot less psycho if these guys had opted for something a bit more mellow. Just a little ‘what if’ for your next rewatch!
Dazed and Confused, 1993
The scene where the characters hotbox a car while driving around town is quintessentially 70s. The hazy, nostalgic cinematography, combined with the carefree attitude of the characters, encapsulates the spirit of the era. It’s a perfect snapshot of teenage rebellion and camaraderie.
Super Troopers, 2001
The “meow” scene is a comedic gem. As the troopers mess with a stoned driver, the absurdity of their antics escalates hilariously. The juxtaposition of authority figures acting ridiculously while the driver tries to maintain his cool makes for a memorable and funny scene.
This Is the End, 2013
In this over-the-top comedy, there’s a scene where Seth Rogen, James Franco, and their celebrity friends hunker down during the apocalypse—and what do they do to pass the time? Smoke a bunch of weed, of course. The moment is pure stoner comedy gold, with the guys getting high and debating ridiculous survival strategies while the world crumbles outside.
City of God, 2002
Cannabis definitely makes an appearance in this powerful and gritty Brazilian film. In City of God, drugs are woven into the fabric of life in the favelas, and there’s a scene where some of the younger kids, barely teenagers, smoke weed as they try to act like they belong in the tough world around them. It’s a heavy moment that shows how something like cannabis, which can be so chill in the right setting, becomes part of a much darker story when mixed with the harsh realities these kids face. It’s a vivid reminder of how quickly innocence can slip away.
Inspired by the Plant
Cannabis and cinema go hand in hand, weaving stories that make us laugh, think, and sometimes trip out. At Mesobis, we get it—weed isn’t just a plant; it’s a vibe, a creative spark, a way to see the world differently.
If you’re into what you’ve just read, you’ll love what we’re doing on MesobisTV. We’re spotlighting artists and creators who, like us, see the world through a different lens. Tune in, get inspired, and stay lifted in the Mesosphere. The journey’s just getting started.
