Best Cannabis Documentaries (15 Must-Watch Marijuana Docs)

The best cannabis documentaries educate.

But they also entertain.

You want to learn something when you watch, but you don’t want to be bored while doing so.

All of the documentaries about marijuana below do both of those things.

They cover cannabis culture and the industry from a variety of angles.

Some are about cultivation, some about the legal landscape, some present personal stories, and more. And some do all of those things.

Keep reading to learn about the best documentaries available about the marijuana industry and culture.

 

Must-Watch Cannabis Documentaries

The 15 films below all highlight compelling narratives, from the journey of activists fighting for acceptance to the scientific endeavors unraveling the mysteries of cannabis compounds.

They delve into the stigmas that have shadowed cannabis use for decades, giving a voice to those affected by the war on drugs.

By examining the economic impacts within the cannabis industry, as well as the plant’s diverse uses and its complex relationship with society, these documentaries offer a panoramic view of cannabis across America.

 

Super High Me (2007)

If you’re a fan of both comedy and cannabis culture, you might find Super High Me particularly interesting.

This documentary offers a humorous, yet insightful, glimpse into the world of marijuana through the eyes of Doug Benson, a stand-up comedian with a well-documented fondness for weed.

The film is a playful parody of the documentary Super Size Me, which explored the health effects of consuming fast food.

In Super High Me, Benson embarks on a 30-day journey in which he steers clear of cannabis, followed by another 30 days where he indulges in the substance continuously.

We get insight into the physical and psychological impacts of marijuana, with Benson undergoing various tests to assess the effects on his body and mind during these contrasting periods.

Directed by Michael Blieden, this documentary received quite a buzz for its unique approach to exploring cannabis consumption.

It cleverly integrates comedy with a scientific perspective, keeping you engaged while also providing substantial food for thought. It shows a personal experience that touches on the broader implications of cannabis on an individual’s health, lifestyle, and society.

If you are looking to explore cannabis documentaries, Super High Me serves as an entertaining and educational choice that might just have you both laughing and contemplating.

 

420: The Documentary (2013)

420: The Documentary delves into the complex world of marijuana, particularly in the context of its legal status and the social implications surrounding its use.

This documentary takes a historical approach, tracing the relationship between society and cannabis from the 1930s to the present day. It casts a critical eye on the portrayal and treatment of marijuana by government authorities and challenges the classification of cannabis as a dangerous and addictive Schedule 1 drug.

The film is not just a recount of history. It also presents a series of compelling narratives that highlight the impact of marijuana legislation on individuals’ lives.

Through interviews and personal stories, 420: The Documentary showcases the stark contrast between the peaceful nature of marijuana events and the often harsh legal consequences faced by those who partake in its use.

This is particularly evident in accounts of college students and others who have faced arrest, or even violent encounters, with law enforcement.

Furthermore, the documentary brings to light the broader societal implications of marijuana use and the growing movement towards decriminalization. It explores various aspects of cannabis culture, from medicinal uses to its role in art and fine dining, capturing the evolving perception of the drug in modern society.

Overall, 420: The Documentary educates viewers on the historical context of cannabis, the failures of the War on Drugs, and the shifting attitudes towards marijuana use.

It is an essential watch for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of cannabis policy and the ongoing debate over the legalization of marijuana.

It serves as a reminder of the importance of informed discourse and the potential for change in public policy when society reexamines long-held beliefs and the evidence that challenges them.

 

The Culture High (2015)

The Culture High gives you a comprehensive view of the marijuana legalization debate. Crafted by director Brett Harvey, this film is a follow-up to his earlier work, expanding on the complex landscape of cannabis policy.

The documentary garnered attention for its insightful interviews with a mix of celebrities like Snoop Dogg, influential podcast host Joe Rogan, activists, and experts.

They collectively unravel the tangled web of political, social, and economic factors entwined with the subject of marijuana prohibition and legalization.

Here’s what you’ll discover:

• The backstory of major arguments for and against the legalization of cannabis.
• The financial motives and interests driving anti-marijuana campaigns.
• The role of media and celebrities in shaping public opinion.
• A critical examination by activists and experts on the prohibition’s efficacy and impact.

The Culture High has a well-constructed narrative and has earned several accolades, including Best Documentary at the 2015 AMPIA Awards.

If you are eager to understand the stakes and arguments involved in one of today’s most pressing social issues, The Culture High is a compelling watch that combines serious investigative work with the star power of its commentators.

 

Grass Is Greener (2019)

Grass Is Greener intertwines cannabis culture with the iconic rhythms of jazz and hip-hop. Directed by hip-hop pioneer Fred Brathwaite, also known as Fab 5 Freddy, this Netflix documentary offers a vivid exploration of the multifaceted relationship between American society and cannabis.

The film opens with a historical perspective on how jazz musicians like Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington intertwined their music with cannabis.

This movie focuses on illustrious figures, such as Bob Marley, and how they influenced the intertwining of the plant with their musical legacies.

These are some of the key elements of the film:

• Examination of cannabis’ influence on music.
• Discussion on the racial implications of cannabis legislation.
• Candid interviews with cannabis enthusiasts and artists, including Snoop Dogg.
• Perspective on evolving legal landscape for cannabis.

Though the documentary has a friendly tone, it doesn’t shy away from discussing the complex societal and racial issues surrounding cannabis legalization.

Snoop Dogg and other cultural icons offer their insights, which makes for an engaging ride through the past, present, and potential future of cannabis and its ever-evolving presence in grass roots and grand stages alike.

Grass Is Greener has received attention for its look at the war on drugs and its racial injustice elements, alongside its celebration of the profound impact cannabis has had on music and culture.

 

The Union: The Business Behind Getting High (2007)

In The Union: The Business Behind Getting High, you’ll find a compelling dive into the Canadian cannabis industry.

Directed by Brett Harvey, this 2007 documentary unveils the intricate economics of marijuana production and trade in British Columbia (BC), which is starkly positioned against its illegal status.

The film helps us understand the scale of cannabis production and how it has matured into an extensive underground economy, with tendrils reaching far beyond its origin.

We learn about ‘The Union’, a term used by those within the trade to describe the collective force behind cannabis cultivation and distribution.

The film spotlights voices from different facets of the cannabis world, including activists and members from the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML). Together, they shed light on consumption patterns and advocate for policy change.

This documentary will open your eyes to the high stakes and complexities of the cannabis market, which despite legal challenges, continues to thrive and evolve.

With its detailed analysis and informative interviews, The Union is a must-watch, if you’re keen to understand the behind-the-scenes of the cannabis industry, from its grassroots economics to the legislative battles that surround it.

 

Weed Wars (2011)

Weed Wars delves into the complex world of cannabis through the lens of a California dispensary. This documentary provides a ground-level view of the challenges and experiences of dispensary owners, as they navigate the uncertain waters between state legality and federal prohibition.

Directed with a keen eye for detail, the film captures the intricate dance between the legal market and the underground market. You’ll witness firsthand how politics and economics intersect within the marijuana industry and how activists push for change in the ever-evolving legal landscape.

Weed Wars not only chronicles the journey of the cannabis plant from taboo to mainstream, but also paints a vivid picture of the individuals fighting for their livelihoods — and what they believe in.

Whether you are an enthusiast or casual viewer, this documentary will give you with an insightful look at the “grass is greener” side of the cannabis movement, the push towards social equity, and the intricate battles being fought on the front lines of cannabis reform.

You’ll gain a nuanced understanding of how the ecosystem surrounding the cannabis industry thrives and survives amid shifting political climates and public perceptions.

 

Weed The People (2018)

Directed by Abby Epstein and produced by high-profile advocate Ricki Lake, Weed the People is not just a film. It’s a profound narrative that shines a light on the complexities surrounding medical marijuana.

The documentary follows the lives of several families. We see them grappling with life-threatening illnesses and turning to cannabis as a potentially life-saving treatment, despite the fraught landscape of legalization.

The film’s focus is personal and heartfelt, presenting a bold exploration of cannabis’s anti-cancer properties, which researchers and doctors in the United States were largely unable to study for the past 80 years.

This eye-opening work dives into the deeply human aspects of legalization, showing patients navigating their treatment options in an environment of legal constraints and societal preconceptions.

By giving a face to those personally affected, Weed the People encourages a nuanced discussion about the role of medicinal cannabis in modern medicine. The film provocatively asks us to consider the moral implications of denying a potentially beneficial treatment due to legal barriers.

 

Clearing The Smoke: The Science Of Cannabis (2011)

Clearing the Smoke: The Science of Cannabis was produced by Montana PBS. It explores how cannabis affects your brain and body, particularly highlighting its potential to treat conditions such as nausea, pain, epilepsy, and even cancer.

The film gained attention for its informative approach, shedding light on the scientific aspects of medical marijuana.

In this documentary, we learn how cannabinoids, like THC and CBD, interact with your body’s systems. There’s a presentation of the science behind medical marijuana, allowing you to understand the complexities of cannabis research.

Experts delve into how cannabis can be both beneficial and challenging as a medicinal substance.

The film’s straightforward approach in presenting scientific evidence and personal testimonies aims to clear the fog of misconceptions surrounding cannabis. Whether you’re a curious enthusiast or seeking knowledge for medical reasons, Clearing the Smoke provides an engaging and informative experience.

 

Breaking Habits (2018)

In the documentary Breaking Habits, we meet Sister Kate, a self-proclaimed nun with a compelling story. Director Robert Ryan brings us into the world of the Sisters of the Valley, a group of cannabis cultivators working to produce medical marijuana for those in need.

Their efforts are set against the backdrop of Merced County, California, where they push to legitimize their cannabis farm.

Sister Kate, formerly known as Christine Meeusen, fled a challenging past and transformed into a figure fighting for the medical marijuana cause. This film shows us the juxtaposition of her former life with the new mission she has carved out.

Along with her fellow activists, she forms the Sisters of the Valley. They are devoted to providing their products to those in need, navigating the tricky waters of legal systems and societal views.

Understanding the culture and mission behind medical marijuana is both enlightening and necessary. Breaking Habits not only helps us do this, but also humanizes the struggles and successes of those in the thick of the industry

Whether you’re well-versed in the world of medical marijuana or simply curious, this documentary offers a real, up-close look at the intersection of activism, belief, and the quest for acceptance in the realm of cannabis cultivation.

 

High Country: The Future Of Weed (2013)

Have you ever been curious about the evolving landscape of cannabis culture? High Country: The Future of Weed might just be what you’re looking for. This film takes us on an eye-opening journey to Denver, heralded as the epicenter of cannabis legalization.

Directed by the team at VICE Motherboard, High Country offers an in-depth look at the burgeoning tech sector in what’s been dubbed the “Silicon Valley of weed.”

It discusses the intricate relationship between technology and modern cannabis cultivation, providing insights into how legalization has transformed the industry.

The film received many positive nods from viewers, who appreciated its balanced examination of both the culture and the controversies surrounding cannabis.

It addresses the health implications and potential medicinal benefits of marijuana, all while providing an economic perspective on the burgeoning industry.

Get ready to explore how legalization has paved the way for innovation and what the future holds for the world of weed in High Country. Whether you’re a cannabis enthusiast or simply intrigued by its socio-economic impacts, this documentary has a wealth of knowledge to offer you.

 

Murder Mountain (2018)

If you’re fascinated by the complexities of California’s cannabis culture, Murder Mountain is a riveting selection. This documentary plunges into the mist-shrouded landscapes of Humboldt County, a notorious haven for marijuana growers.

The series originally aired on Fusion TV before catching the eye of Netflix where it gained wider recognition.

In Murder Mountain, we learn how the lucrative cash crop has shaped the community of Humboldt County and the dark side of what is often perceived as a “green rush.”

The narrative focuses on the area’s transformation from a countercultural paradise to a region with a reputation tarnished by missing persons and criminal activities related to the marijuana industry.

The episodes navigate a labyrinth of stories, local legends, and hard facts, painting a picture of the growers’ lifestyle—both the outlaw legacy and the modern challenges they confront with legalization.

While the dangers are real, the series also delves into the community spirit and the bonds that tie Humboldt’s residents together, despite the shadows cast by its more troubling aspects.

 

American Drug War 2: Cannabis Destiny (2013)

If you’re a cannabis enthusiast or interested in the dialogue surrounding the war on drugs in America, American Drug War 2: Cannabis Destiny is a pivotal documentary that shines a light on the complexities of marijuana criminalization and its impacts.

Crafted by award-winning director Kevin Booth, this documentary offers an intimate look into the lives affected by cannabis policies and the journey towards legalization.

The film follows Booth as he becomes a foster parent to a child who has been court-ordered to take mind-altering drugs, juxtaposing this against the landscape of cannabis research.

American Drug War 2 captures our attention with personal stories, but also delves into interviews with experts like Donald Abrams, providing us with a multi-faceted view of the cannabis debate.

Critics have lauded the film for its insightful approach to addressing propaganda and exposing the struggles of families fighting against cancer with cannabis as a treatment.

It’s a must-watch if you’re interested in the evolution of cannabis laws and the activism fostering change. The film will deepen your understanding of the “war on weed”, and show you firsthand the effect of these laws on individuals, including police officers and regular citizens caught in the crosshairs.

 

How Weed Won The West (2010)

https://youtu.be/3XlGWgdrbPg

In the enlightening film How Weed Won the West, you’ll be introduced to the efforts and implications of cannabis legalization in California. This documentary is a sequel to the impactful American Drug War and is directed by filmmaker Kevin Booth.

His work sheds light on issues such as the medicinal use of cannabis and the growth of dispensaries in the Los Angeles area. The film features a variety of perspectives, including voices from law enforcement and advocates for the medicinal use of marijuana.

It explores the complexities of a system grappling with the budding medical cannabis industry and the federal regulations that create a contentious environment.

Medical marijuana has been a topic of significant debate, and How Weed Won the West offers us a nuanced view of the legal struggles and triumphs within this context.

The film takes us on a journey through the various stages of the medical marijuana movement. We learn about the health benefits it offers and the often formidable pushback from federal agencies.

We also get to witness the stories of individuals who rely on cannabis for medical purposes and how their lives have been affected by the legislation.

This eye-opening documentary is essential viewing if you’re looking to educate yourself on the history and ongoing challenges of medical cannabis in the United States.

 

Lynching Charlie Lynch (2011)

Lynching Charlie Lynch takes us on a journey through the complexities of medical marijuana laws in the United States. This film, directed by Rick Ray, shines a light on the story of Charlie Lynch, a businessman who endeavored to operate within the boundaries of the law.

Lynch’s plight began when federal authorities stepped in. Despite his diligent efforts to comply with state law, marijuana has remained a Schedule I substance federally, leading to a crushing legal battle.

His situation raises critical questions regarding federalism and criminal justice concerning cannabis, which remains highly relevant today. Lynching Charlie Lynch offers a window into the contradicting layers of marijuana regulation, and the personal toll it can exact.

 

Married To Marijuana (2014)

Married to Marijuana takes us on a journey that explores the personal, cultural, and economic impact of cannabis on people’s lives.

Crafted by filmmakers passionate about the subject, it uncovers intimate stories of those who advocate for, use, and revolve their lives around marijuana.

The documentary received a warm reception for its balanced narrative, blending the voices of activists, patients, and entrepreneurs in the cannabis industry.

It doesn’t shy away from the controversies and challenges faced by the community, yet it also celebrates the plant’s potential for healing and connection.

 

Best Cannabis Documentaries: Final Thoughts

The 15 documentaries above offer a number of different takes on the marijuana industry, and the culture surrounding it. All will teach you something and all will entertain.

Of course, there are many other films we could have included here. We consider these the best cannabis documentaries, because they combine knowledge with entertainment and they do so in a skilled and professional way.