Stoner movies are a subgenre of comedy movies that are often associated with drug culture and the use of marijuana.
These movies typically feature characters who are either stoners themselves or who find themselves in situations involving drug use. They are known for their irreverent humor, over-the-top situations, and colorful characters.
The origins of stoner movies can be traced back to the counterculture of the 1960s and 70s, when the use of marijuana became more widespread and socially acceptable.
Since then, stoner movies have become a popular staple of the comedy genre, with many classic films that have achieved cult status among fans.
While some people may see stoner movies as promoting drug use, others argue that they are simply a form of entertainment that can be enjoyed by both stoners and non-stoners alike.
Best Stoner Movies
Regardless of your personal views on drug use, stoner movies offer a unique and often hilarious perspective on life that is worth exploring.
1. Up in Smoke (1978)
“Up in Smoke” is a stoner comedy movie released in 1978, directed by Lou Adler and starring Cheech Marin and Tommy Chong. The film is the first in a series of films featuring the stoner duo, Cheech and Chong.
The story follows Pedro De Pacas (Cheech Marin) and Anthony “Man” Stoner (Tommy Chong) as they meet and embark on a wild adventure in search of weed.
Along the way, they accidentally smuggle a van made entirely of marijuana across the border and attract the attention of the police.
“Up in Smoke” was a commercial success and has since become a cult classic. The film is noted for its use of humor and satire to address issues surrounding drug culture and counterculture.
The film’s soundtrack, featuring music by Cheech and Chong and other artists, has also been well-regarded by fans.
2. How High (2001)
“How High” is a 2001 American stoner comedy film directed by Jesse Dylan and starring Method Man and Redman.
The film follows two underachieving stoners, Silas and Jamal, who smoke a magical strain of marijuana that allows them to ace their college entrance exams and gain admission to Harvard University.
The film is known for its over-the-top humor and its portrayal of cannabis culture, as well as for its use of hip hop music and celebrity cameos.
The film also touches on themes of friendship, race, and the importance of education.
“How High” was a commercial success, grossing over $31 million worldwide. It was criticized by some for its reliance on stereotypes and its shallow characterization, but it has also gained a cult following and has been cited as an important work in the stoner comedy genre.
3. Half Baked (1998)
“Half Baked” is a comedy film directed by Tamra Davis and released in 1998. The movie was written by Dave Chappelle, who also stars in the film alongside Jim Breuer, Harland Williams, and Guillermo Díaz.
The story follows four friends who embark on a series of misadventures after one of them is arrested for accidentally killing a diabetic police horse while feeding it junk food.
The film is known for its irreverent humor, stoner comedy, and satirical take on drug culture.
It features a number of comedic set pieces, including a visit to a drug rehabilitation center, a botched attempt to steal marijuana from a laboratory, and a showdown with a drug kingpin.
Despite receiving mixed reviews upon its initial release, “Half Baked” has since become a cult classic and is considered a landmark of stoner comedy.
It has been praised for its clever writing, absurd humor, and memorable characters, as well as for its commentary on drug policy and the War on Drugs.
4. Friday (1995)
“Friday” directed by F. Gary Gray and starring Ice Cube and Chris Tucker, here are some key points about the movie:
“Friday” follows the story of two friends, Craig and Smokey, who spend a day in their Los Angeles neighborhood dealing with various antics and conflicts.
Craig is trying to avoid getting fired from his job, while Smokey is trying to avoid getting beaten up by a drug dealer to whom he owes money.
The movie is known for its humor and its depiction of life in an urban African American community. It features a cast of memorable characters, including the neighborhood bully Deebo, the nosy Mrs. Parker, and the religious Big Worm.
“Friday” was a commercial success and spawned two sequels, “Next Friday” and “Friday After Next.” The film has since become a cult classic and is often cited as one of the best stoner comedies of all time.
The movie also features a soundtrack that includes popular hip-hop and R&B tracks
5. Next Friday (2000)
“Next Friday” is a comedy film directed by Steve Carr and released in 2000. It is the sequel to the 1995 film “Friday” and stars Ice Cube as Craig Jones, who moves from his old neighborhood to the suburbs to escape the danger of his former environment.
However, he finds that his new neighborhood has its own set of challenges, including dealing with his eccentric uncle, played by Mike Epps, and a neighborhood bully, played by Tom “Tiny” Lister Jr.
The film was well-received by audiences for its humor and memorable characters, and it was a commercial success at the box office. “Next Friday” has since become a cult favorite among fans of the “Friday” franchise and is notable for its impact on popular culture, particularly in the realm of urban comedy.
Overall, “Next Friday” is a fun and lighthearted comedy that offers a welcome escape from reality. Its irreverent humor and memorable characters have made it a classic of the genre and a beloved favorite among audiences.
6. Friday After Next (2002)
“Friday After Next” is a comedy movie released in 2002, directed by Marcus Raboy and starring Ice Cube, Mike Epps, and John Witherspoon.
It is the third installment in the “Friday” film series and follows the misadventures of Craig (Ice Cube) and Day-Day (Mike Epps) as they work as security guards in a Christmas-themed strip mall.
The film features a number of comedic set pieces and running gags, including the antics of their zany landlord (John Witherspoon) and a group of thieves who steal their Christmas presents.
The movie also features a number of musical performances and appearances by various celebrities.
“Friday After Next” received mixed reviews upon its release, with some critics praising its humor and performances while others criticized it for relying too heavily on vulgar and crass humor.
However, the film has since gained a cult following and is considered a classic of the urban comedy genre, known for its memorable characters and quotable one-liners.
7. Ted (2012)
Ted is a comedy movie released in 2012, directed by Seth MacFarlane and starring Mark Wahlberg, Mila Kunis, and Seth MacFarlane as the voice of the titular character, a foul-mouthed teddy bear who comes to life after a magical wish made by his owner, John (Mark Wahlberg).
The plot of the movie revolves around John and Ted’s lifelong friendship, as they navigate their way through adulthood while dealing with the consequences of Ted’s wild and unpredictable behavior.
However, their friendship is put to the test when John’s girlfriend, Lori (Mila Kunis), begins to feel neglected and threatened by Ted’s presence in their lives.
Ted was a critical and commercial success upon its release, with many critics praising its sharp humor, irreverent style, and strong performances from the cast.
The movie also spawned a sequel, Ted 2, and has become a cult favorite among fans of stoner comedies. While the movie does feature drug use and other adult themes, it is ultimately a lighthearted and fun-filled romp that is sure to delight audiences looking for a good laugh.
8. Grandma’s Boy (2006)
“Grandma’s Boy” is a comedy movie released in 2006, directed by Nicholaus Goossen and starring Allen Covert, Linda Cardellini, and Doris Roberts.
The film follows Alex (Allen Covert), a video game tester, who is forced to move in with his grandmother and her roommates after being evicted from his apartment.
As Alex adjusts to his new living situation, he tries to complete the development of a video game with his friends, while also dealing with the antics of his grandmother and her friends.
“Grandma’s Boy” received mixed reviews from critics, but has since gained a cult following among fans of stoner comedies and video game culture.
The film’s humor is often crude and relies heavily on drug use and sexual humor. Despite its low critical reception, the film has been praised for its fun and silly nature and its celebration of video game culture.
9. Super High Me (2007)
“Super High Me” is a 2007 American documentary film directed by Michael Blieden and starring comedian Doug Benson. The film is a satirical take on the 2004 documentary “Super Size Me,” in which filmmaker Morgan Spurlock ate only McDonald’s food for a month.
In “Super High Me,” Benson sets out to smoke cannabis every day for 30 days, and then abstain from the drug for another 30 days, in order to see how his physical and mental health are affected by prolonged use.
The film also features interviews with doctors, activists, and other comedians, as well as footage of Benson performing stand-up comedy.
The film is known for its humorous and irreverent take on the debate surrounding the legalization and use of cannabis, as well as for its criticism of the War on Drugs and the negative stereotypes associated with cannabis users.
“Super High Me” was a modest box office success and has gained a cult following among fans of cannabis culture and documentary filmmaking.
It has been criticized by some for its lack of scientific rigor and its reliance on anecdotal evidence, but it has also been praised for its entertainment value and its contribution to the ongoing conversation about cannabis legalization.
10. Dazed and Confused (1993)
“Dazed and Confused” is a coming-of-age comedy film directed by Richard Linklater and released in 1993. The movie is set in 1976 and follows a group of high school students in Austin, Texas, on the last day of school before summer vacation.
The ensemble cast includes Jason London, Rory Cochrane, Ben Affleck, Milla Jovovich, Matthew McConaughey, and Parker Posey, among others.
The film is known for its realistic depiction of high school life in the 1970s, capturing the nostalgia, rebellion, and confusion of adolescence.
It explores themes of peer pressure, social hierarchies, and the search for identity as the characters navigate their way through parties, pranks, and drug use.
“Dazed and Confused” received mixed reviews upon its initial release, but has since gained a cult following and is considered a classic of the coming-of-age genre.
It has been praised for its memorable characters, iconic soundtrack, and Linklater’s ability to capture the essence of youth culture.
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11. Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle (2004)
“Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle” is a comedy film that was released in 2004. It was directed by Danny Leiner and written by Jon Hurwitz and Hayden Schlossberg.
The film follows two friends, Harold Lee (John Cho) and Kumar Patel (Kal Penn), who set out on a quest to satisfy their craving for White Castle burgers after getting high on marijuana.
Along the way, they encounter a variety of obstacles and misadventures, including encounters with Neil Patrick Harris and a racist police officer.
The film was a critical and commercial success and has since become a cult classic. It spawned two sequels, “Harold & Kumar Escape from Guantanamo Bay” (2008) and “A Very Harold & Kumar 3D Christmas” (2011).
12. Harold & Kumar Escape from Guantanamo Bay (2008)
“Harold & Kumar Escape from Guantanamo Bay” is a comedy film released in 2008, directed by Jon Hurwitz and Hayden Schlossberg.
It is the sequel to the 2004 film “Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle” and stars John Cho and Kal Penn as the titular characters, Harold and Kumar, respectively.
The film follows the misadventures of Harold and Kumar as they travel to Amsterdam but are mistakenly identified as terrorists and sent to Guantanamo Bay. They escape and embark on a wild journey to clear their names and avoid being captured by the government.
The film was praised for its humor and for its commentary on post-9/11 politics and racism. However, it was also criticized for its portrayal of Middle Eastern characters and for its reliance on stereotypical humor.
Overall, “Harold & Kumar Escape from Guantanamo Bay” is a raunchy and irreverent comedy that offers a unique perspective on contemporary social issues. Its humor may not be for everyone, but it has developed a loyal fan base and is considered a classic of the stoner comedy genre.
13. A Very Harold & Kumar Christmas (2011)
“A Very Harold & Kumar Christmas” is a comedy movie released in 2011, directed by Todd Strauss-Schulson and starring John Cho and Kal Penn.
It is the third installment in the “Harold & Kumar” film series and follows the two friends as they reunite for a wild and chaotic Christmas adventure.
The film features a number of comedic set pieces and running gags, including a search for the perfect Christmas tree, encounters with gangsters and mobsters, and a wild party at a church.
The movie also features a number of musical performances and appearances by various celebrities.
The film received mixed reviews upon its release, with some critics praising its humor and performances while others criticized it for being formulaic and predictable.
However, the film has since gained a cult following and is considered a classic of the stoner comedy genre, known for its irreverent humor and over-the-top antics.
14. Super Troopers (2001)
Super Troopers is a comedy movie released in 2001, directed by Jay Chandrasekhar and starring the comedy troupe Broken Lizard, which includes Jay Chandrasekhar, Kevin Heffernan, Steve Lemme, Paul Soter, and Erik Stolhanske.
The plot of the movie revolves around a group of five Vermont state troopers who spend their days pulling pranks and playing practical jokes on each other and the public.
However, their easygoing lifestyle is threatened when a budget crisis threatens to shut down their station. In order to save their jobs, the troopers must prove their worth by cracking a drug smuggling ring operating in their jurisdiction.
Super Troopers was a critical and commercial success upon its release, with many critics praising its absurd humor, memorable characters, and clever satire of law enforcement culture.
The movie has since become a cult classic, with many fans quoting its memorable lines and scenes. It also spawned a sequel, Super Troopers 2, which was released in 2018.
If you’re in the mood for a silly and irreverent comedy with a touch of stoner humor, Super Troopers is definitely worth checking out.
15. Pineapple Express (2008)
“Pineapple Express” is a stoner action-comedy movie released in 2008, directed by David Gordon Green and starring Seth Rogen, James Franco, and Gary Cole.
The film follows Dale Denton (Seth Rogen), a process server and frequent marijuana user, who witnesses a murder committed by a dangerous drug lord and his corrupt police officer.
Dale goes on the run with his dealer, Saul Silver (James Franco), as they try to evade the drug lord’s henchmen and the corrupt police officers. Along the way, they encounter various obstacles and comedic situations, all while trying to clear their names and bring the criminals to justice.
“Pineapple Express” received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised the film’s humor and the chemistry between Seth Rogen and James Franco. The film’s action sequences and soundtrack were also well-received.
The film’s use of marijuana and drug culture has been noted as controversial by some, but praised by others as a subversive commentary on drug laws and the war on drugs.
16. Soul Plane (2004)
“Soul Plane” is a 2004 American comedy film directed by Jessy Terrero and starring Kevin Hart, Tom Arnold, and Snoop Dogg.
The film follows a young entrepreneur named Nashawn Wade, played by Hart, who sues an airline after a humiliating experience on a flight.
With the settlement money, Nashawn decides to start his own airline, NWA (Nashawn Wade Airlines), which caters specifically to African-American passengers.
The film is known for its raunchy humor and its portrayal of African-American culture, as well as for its use of celebrity cameos and pop culture references. It also touches on themes of entrepreneurship, identity, and race.
“Soul Plane” was a commercial success, grossing over $14 million at the box office. However, it was widely criticized by critics for its reliance on stereotypes and its shallow characterization, as well as for its use of crude and offensive humor.
Despite these criticisms, the film has gained a cult following and has been cited as an important work in the African-American comedy genre.
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17. Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas (1998)
“Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas” is a dark comedy film directed by Terry Gilliam and released in 1998.
The movie is based on the novel of the same name by Hunter S. Thompson, and stars Johnny Depp and Benicio Del Toro as Raoul Duke and Dr. Gonzo, two drug-addled journalists who travel to Las Vegas to cover a motorcycle race and indulge in a series of drug-fueled escapades.
The film is known for its surreal visuals, trippy editing, and over-the-top performances by Depp and Del Toro.
It explores themes of drug culture, counterculture, and the decline of the American Dream, as the characters engage in a series of absurd and often dangerous adventures, including attending a drug conference, getting caught up in a police chase, and experiencing a bad acid trip.
“Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas” received mixed reviews upon its release, but has since gained a cult following and is considered a landmark of the psychedelic cinema.
It has been praised for its creative visual style, its faithful adaptation of Thompson’s gonzo journalism, and the chemistry between Depp and Del Toro.
18. This Is the End (2013)
“This Is the End” is a comedy film that was released in 2013. It was directed by Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg, who also wrote the screenplay.
The film features an ensemble cast of comedic actors including James Franco, Jonah Hill, Seth Rogen, Jay Baruchel, Danny McBride, and Craig Robinson, all playing exaggerated versions of themselves.
The plot of the film revolves around the end of the world, as the actors become trapped in James Franco’s house during the apocalypse.
As they try to survive, they must deal with their own egos, relationships, and various threats both internal and external. The film received positive reviews for its humor and unique concept, and was a commercial success.
19. Knocked Up (2007)
“Knocked Up” is a romantic comedy film directed by Judd Apatow and released in 2007.
The film stars Seth Rogen as Ben Stone, an unemployed slacker who gets a one-night stand with Alison Scott, played by Katherine Heigl, who is a successful television personality.
They find out she’s pregnant and decide to try to make a relationship work for the sake of the baby, despite their very different lifestyles.
The film was widely praised for its humor and its portrayal of the ups and downs of relationships. It was also noted for its honest depiction of pregnancy and childbirth, and for its exploration of the challenges and rewards of parenthood.
“Knocked Up” was a commercial and critical success upon its release and helped launch the careers of several of its stars, including Seth Rogen and Katherine Heigl. It has since become a cult favorite among fans of romantic comedies and is considered one of the best films in the genre.
20. Tenacious D in the Pick of Destiny (2006)
“Tenacious D in the Pick of Destiny” is a musical comedy movie released in 2006, directed by Liam Lynch and starring Jack Black and Kyle Gass.
The film follows the fictionalized version of the real-life musical duo Tenacious D as they go on a quest to find the mythical guitar pick of destiny, which they believe will make them the greatest rock band in the world.
The movie features a number of musical performances by Tenacious D, as well as a number of comedic set pieces and running gags. The film also features appearances by a number of celebrity cameos, including Dave Grohl and Ben Stiller.
“Tenacious D in the Pick of Destiny” received mixed reviews upon its release, with some critics praising its humor and musical performances while others criticized it for being juvenile and overly reliant on Jack Black’s comedic schtick.
However, the film has since gained a cult following and is considered a classic of the musical comedy genre, known for its irreverent humor and catchy songs.
3 Characteristics of Stoner Movies
Stoner movies are a sub-genre of comedy films that are centered around the use of cannabis or marijuana. Here are three common characteristics of stoner movies:
Drug Use: One of the defining characteristics of stoner movies is the depiction of drug use, particularly the use of marijuana. Characters are often shown smoking, eating or otherwise consuming cannabis, and the effects of the drug are often exaggerated or played for laughs.
Humor: Stoner movies are primarily comedies, and they rely heavily on humor to entertain the audience. The humor is often absurd, irreverent, or slapstick, and is designed to appeal to the sensibilities of stoner culture.
Counterculture: Stoner movies often have a countercultural element to them, with characters who are outsiders or rebels who reject mainstream values and norms.
They may also have an anti-establishment or anti-authoritarian tone, and may satirize societal institutions such as law enforcement, politics, or the media.
Overall, stoner movies are designed to be entertaining and provide a form of escapism for their audience, while also celebrating the subculture of marijuana use and the countercultural values associated with it.
3 Reasons To Watch Stoner Movies
Humor: Stoner movies are often known for their irreverent humor and over-the-top antics. They can be a great way to unwind and have a good laugh after a long day or week.
Relatable: For those who have experience with smoking marijuana, stoner movies can be a relatable experience that captures the unique humor and atmosphere of being high.
It can be a fun way to reminisce about past experiences or to share a laugh with friends who have similar experiences.
Escapism: Sometimes, people just want to watch a movie to escape from their everyday lives and enter into a different world. Stoner movies often offer a fun, carefree, and sometimes even surreal world that can be a refreshing break from reality. It can be a great way to relax and let go of stress and worries.
Best Stoner Movies – Wrap Up
In conclusion, stoner movies have become a beloved subgenre of comedy movies that offer a unique perspective on life, often filled with irreverent humor, colorful characters, and over-the-top situations.
While some may see them as promoting drug use, others argue that they are simply a form of entertainment that can be enjoyed by both stoners and non-stoners alike.
From classics like Cheech and Chong’s Up in Smoke to modern hits like Pineapple Express, stoner movies have been entertaining audiences for decades, and continue to do so with their unique brand of humor and satire.
Whether you’re a fan of the genre or just looking for a good laugh, stoner movies offer something for everyone, with their witty scripts, talented actors, and unforgettable moments. So grab some popcorn, sit back, and enjoy some of the best stoner movies out there!
