Grass Is Greener

The main idea of it is established at the beginning. It invites you to watch it from the perspective of the ones that had suffered it the most regarding consumption of marihuana. It shows you historic facts that help the viewer to understand the problematic behind its demonization. This particular documentary handles a very complex topic. It should be noted that is not about if drugs are good or bad, if this one or that one needs to be legalize, it is about understanding that the political motivations behind it. You may agree on this o not, but certainly it should not affect how you would rate this documentary.

Packed with legends and stars this film chronicles the introduction of cannabis to the United States. At first considered a harmless and even healthy plant, it was later criminalized by government officials interested in keeping white women away from black men. The impact on the music industry, from jazz to hip hop is examined throughout the film.

II feel I'm like quite a few folks not having a strongly formed opinion about marijuana. This film is like a quick education about changing times and long held misconceptions based on early 20th century propaganda. I feel after watching it I've been duped by one huge movement with several early evil agendas. That doesn't even address the trail of tears of ruined lives as collateral damage. This doc is pro-legalization, but it is balanced enough not to be dismissed. I have to say it raises some very powerful points. I think the most important take-away is it is been made much worse for our society as a whole by draconian laws based on many lies. The way it has transpired for almost 80+ years has been more advantageous to large criminal enterprise while exacting a high cost on society, in particular disproportionately within certain communities. Now things are changing and like the film says we still have a long way to go. These facts make this an entertaining, but sobering, look at the particular point in our history in which we find ourselves at the doorstep for a better future. Keep the lies out this time in order to not repeat with another mess. See it and form your own opinion.

It pretty much all comes down to racism. With hip-hop, weed got more associated with black/hispanic people. Some interesting facts, but could've been better. Clearly biased, but damn rotting in jail for small amount of weed is infuriating to see. America's relationship with drugs will always be complex no matter how huge weed is in popular culture.

The lesson you should never forget is this: always consume with MODERATION.

This documentary really outlines the history of cannabis in America. It really explores the cultures and art that weed fostered, explaining with great detail the motivations behind political and cultural movements that followed its introduction to the US. It does well applying that cultural lens to understand the ongoing issues faced by many communities ravaged by the war on drugs. A solid documentary and worth a watch.