Grass (1999)

75% of critics liked it
(20 reviews)
76% of users liked it
(2,298 ratings)

Woody Harrelson narrates this documentary about the history of marijuana in 20th century America. Beginning with clips from educational films and exploitation pictures that show how marijuana can lead to crime, insanity, and harder drugs, Grass also documents the exploits of Harry Anslinger, who… More Woody Harrelson narrates this documentary about the history of marijuana in 20th century America. Beginning with clips from educational films and exploitation pictures that show how marijuana can lead to crime, insanity, and harder drugs, Grass also documents the exploits of Harry Anslinger, who became America's first drug czar and waged a lifelong war against marijuana use in the United States. As the repressive environment of the 1930s and 1940s gave way to the beat era of the 1950s and the hippie uprisings of the 1960s, attitudes towards marijuana became more lenient, and several states relaxed their laws regarding the drug; but the election of Ronald Reagan, and his wife Nancy's famous "Just Say No" campaign, put many pro-pot activists back in the starting blocks. Director Ron Mann takes a decidedly pro-marijuana position in this film, though he does so with more humor than militance (the end credits note "No hippies were harmed in the making of this film"). ~ Mark Deming, Rovi

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Rating, Runtime: R, 1 hr. 20 min.
Directed By: Ron Mann
Written By: Solomon Vesta
Genres: Documentary, Drama, Special Interest

In Theaters: May 31, 2000 Wide
On DVD: Apr 5, 2005
Studio: A-Pix

Critic Reviews

Ryan Cracknell, Apollo Guide
With its accessible and slick post modern foundation, this is a documentary worth watching and discussing, not only for its thematic merits but its artful side as well.
James Kendrick, Q Network Film Desk
makes a strong case, ultimately arguing for the futility of the war on drugs, particularly a drug like marijuana
Christopher Null, Filmcritic.com
Grass makes drugs a lot of fun. Er, wait a second.

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Featured Audience Ratings

_kelly .

an interesting and decent pot doc, gets the most circulation at legalization events
Greg S

Documentary detailing the American government's often absurdly hyperbolic campaign of misinformation about marijuana. The archival footage and clips from REEFER MADNESS and other (non-government sponsored) exploitation films are often hilarious, but if you lack a sense of… More
Documentary detailing the American government's often absurdly hyperbolic campaign of misinformation about marijuana. The archival footage and clips from REEFER MADNESS and other (non-government sponsored) exploitation films are often hilarious, but if you lack a sense of righteous indignation over pot prohibition, the joke wears thin before the movie ends. With celebrity stoner Woody Harrelson narrating, it's obvious that the filmmakers aim is to preach to the potsmoking choir.
Kevin M

Woody Harrelson effectively narrates this documentary which exposes America's propaganda-laden war on marijuana. Although the musical score is less than spectacular, I appreciate the truth-seeking information as it's objectively projected. Marijuana was first outlawed as a… More
Woody Harrelson effectively narrates this documentary which exposes America's propaganda-laden war on marijuana. Although the musical score is less than spectacular, I appreciate the truth-seeking information as it's objectively projected. Marijuana was first outlawed as a means to control Mexican immigrants from making their living in southern US as farm-hands (who smoked pot to relax after working long days in the fields). The resulting unconstitutional DEA legislation resulting in America's 'War on Drugs' has since placed media attention on 'illegal immigrants' throughout the 20th & 21st centuries. While prudish members of society condemn pot smokers for growing and trafficking it, marijuana carries a wide range of homeopathic applications - appetite builder (treats HIV/AIDS/anorexia), analgesic and stress relief (cures pain & depression in small doses) and dulls symptoms of glaucoma. Pivotal advocates face imprisonment, death sentences and false charges based on the North American 'Drug War' laws. This film will educate and entertain those interested in researching the political impact of weed, whether you're a marijuana advocate (like Harrelson) or a clean-living political activist.

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Grass (1999)

Critic Reviews

Featured Audience Ratings

_kelly .

Greg S

Kevin M

Cast

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