Rewards
When you’re high, movies can completely transform for experience; inspiring the imagination and stirring the senses. There’s something magical about sinking into a comfy couch, turning on a film, and letting the visuals and sounds wash over you. So, what are the best movies to watch while high?
The beauty of this experience is that it spans a variety of genres and styles—from whimsical animations and mind-bending sci-fi to feel-good comedies and trippy dramas. In this blog, we’ll highlight 10 fantastic films that elevate your high experience, diving into their unique elements and what makes them perfect for a laid-back movie night.
Whether you’re looking for something lighthearted or a cinematic masterpiece that sparks deep thoughts, we’ve got you covered. So, without further ado, grab some weed brownies and let’s dive in.
1. Inception
Plot Overview: A Warner Bros must-see, Inception follows a skilled thief named Dom Cobb, who specializes in the art of extraction—stealing valuable secrets from deep within the subconscious during dreams. Hired for a challenging task, he must do the impossible: instead of stealing an idea, he must plant one (known as “inception”) into a target’s mind. As Cobb assembles a team to dive into multiple layers of dreams, they encounter unexpected challenges, blurring the lines between reality and illusion.
Visuals: The mind-bending visuals in Inception are nothing short of spectacular. From cityscapes folding in on themselves to gravity-defying fight scenes, the film’s special effects enhance the trippy experience, making you feel as if you’re right there in the dream world. These stunning visuals, coupled with Christopher Nolan’s meticulous direction, create an immersive environment that’s perfect for a heightened state of perception.
Themes to Explore: One of the film’s most intriguing themes is the exploration of dreams versus reality. It prompts viewers to question what is truly real and what exists only in our minds. Additionally, the concept of time plays a significant role, as the experience of time can stretch and compress within dreams, creating a profound commentary on our understanding of life and the moments that matter most.
2. Monty Python and the Holy Grail
Plot Overview: Monty Python and the Holy Grail is a hilarious and irreverent take on the legendary tale of King Arthur and his quest for the Holy Grail. This cult classic unfolds as a series of absurd encounters, from knights battling a three-headed giant to confrontations with a ferociously comedic killer rabbit. The film’s loose narrative structure embraces silliness and embraces comedic randomness, ensuring that every scene offers fresh slapstick and quotable moments that keep audiences laughing.
Absurdity: The absurd humor in Monty Python and the Holy Grail is a hallmark of the film, with its clever blend of ridiculous characters and surreal situations. The Python troupe revels in breaking traditional comedic conventions, reminding viewers that laughter often lies in the unexpected and the bizarre. This signature playfulness keeps the energy high, inviting audiences to join in on the madness, whether it’s through the infamous “Bring out your dead!” scene or the search for shrubbery.
Social Commentary: Beneath the laughs, Monty Python and the Holy Grail offers a sharp critique of medieval society and its institutions. Through its countless parodies of chivalry, governance, and religion, the film cleverly pokes fun at the absurdities of authority and the human condition. The biting wit encourages viewers to laugh not just at the characters’ follies but also at the broader societal norms they embody, making it an enduring commentary that resonates long after the jokes fade.
3. Fantastic Planet
Plot Overview: Fantastic Planet takes you on a wild ride to the distant planet of Ygam, where giant blue aliens known as Traag carry out a strange and surreal life. The story centers around a group of tiny humans called the “Oms,” who are treated as pets by their alien overlords. As they strive for freedom and understanding in a world that seems light-years away from their own, viewers are drawn into this mesmerizing tale of rebellion and coexistence. The narrative flows like a dream, weaving through imaginative landscapes and thought-provoking encounters that challenge our perceptions of life and hierarchy.
Animation Style: The animation in Fantastic Planet is truly one-of-a-kind, with vibrant colors and trippy visuals that feel like stepping into an abstract painting. The characters and environments are rendered in a way that’s both whimsical and otherworldly, offering a fascinating collision of bizarre shapes and forms that can really heighten your experience when you’re in a relaxed state. The fluid movement and surreal imagery creates visuals that enthrall the senses, making it a perfect watch when you’re looking to expand your imagination.
Takeaways: This science fiction film packs important messages about society, urging viewers to reflect on themes of oppression and individuality. It cleverly forces us to consider how we perceive others and the world around us, making it an eye-opening experience not just for the high, but for anyone who’s open to its profound ideas. Fantastic Planet invites you to question the status quo, making it both a captivating and enlightening choice for a laid-back movie night.
4. Pulp Fiction
Plot Overview: Pulp Fiction weaves together multiple interconnected stories centered around the Los Angeles criminal underworld. With its iconic characters, such as hitmen Vincent Vega and Jules Winnfield, the film takes you on a nonlinear journey filled with twists, dark humor, and unforgettable dialogue. From the infamous Royale with Cheese scene to the electrifying tension of the “dance-off,” each vignette plays out like a piece of art, leaving you both entertained and pondering the absurdity of life.
Aesthetic: The film’s aesthetic is the epitome of cool, with stylish cinematography, eclectic soundtracks, and striking character designs. Quentin Tarantino’s clever visual storytelling, combined with sharp editing and memorable quotes, creates a distinctive vibe that’s as captivating when you’re high as it is when you’re sober. The neon-lit streets, vintage flair, and gritty locations come together to form a rich tapestry that pulls you in and keeps you engaged, enhancing every surreal moment.
Takeaways: Beyond its surface-level thrills, Pulp Fiction dives into themes of fate, redemption, and the choices that define us. It challenges you to think about how our lives intersect in unexpected ways and the ripple effects that follow, all while embracing a non-linear narrative that encourages reflection. This film is not just entertainment; it serves up a feast of creative storytelling and moral ambiguity, making it a perfect choice for those late-night viewings when your mind is ready to wander through new ideas.
5. The Grand Budapest Hotel
Plot Overview: The Grand Budapest Hotel whisks us away to a whimsical European resort in the 1930s, where we follow the misadventures of Gustave H, a legendary concierge, and his eager apprentice, Zero. When Gustave is accused of murder after the suspicious death of one of his wealthy patrons, the duo embarks on a madcap journey filled with intrigue, quirky characters, and a stolen painting that leads them through a charmingly chaotic world. This classic film is a love letter to a bygone era, blending elements of mystery and nostalgia in a way that feels both familiar and refreshingly unique.
Wes Anderson’s Style: Wes Anderson’s signature visual flair is front and center in this film. From the meticulously crafted sets to the playful color palettes, every scene is a feast for the eyes, resembling a fantastical storybook come to life. His trademark symmetry and attention to detail create a stunning visual experience that draws you in and keeps you captivated. Whether it’s the way the hotel is designed or the oddball props scattered throughout, you’re left with a sense of whimsy that only Anderson can deliver.
Humor: The humor in The Grand Budapest Hotel is quirky and dry, perfect for those laid-back moments when you’re just kicking back. Anderson’s clever dialogue and offbeat characters come together to form laugh-out-loud moments amidst the film’s more serious themes. The interplay between the eccentric characters, topped off with absurd situations, evokes a warmth and charm that lingers long after the credits roll. It’s one of those films you can watch over and over, always finding something new to chuckle at when you’re feeling relaxed and ready for a good laugh.
6. Pineapple Express
Plot Overview: Pineapple Express is a wild ride through the life of Dale Denton (Seth Rogan), a process server who stumbles upon a murder while delivering papers. In the midst of this chaos, he witnesses a crime linked to a lazy, yet loveable stoner named Saul Silver (James Franco). After accidentally leaving behind a rare strain of weed—Pineapple Express—Dale realizes he’s now a target for both the cops and some dangerous drug dealers. Together, Dale and Saul go on a hilariously outrageous adventure as they try to escape their predicament, all while indulging in some classic stoner antics.
Stoner Comedy: The film is a prime example of stoner friends comedy, embracing its laid-back vibe with plenty of laughs along the way. It captures the essence of what it’s like to be young and carefree, allowing audiences to relate to the goofy, yet earnest characters who find themselves in over-the-top situations. The humor comes naturally, stemming from the characters’ quirks and their ridiculous conversations, making it easy for anyone to chuckle at their antics.
Friendship Themes: At its core, Pineapple Express explores the themes of friendship and loyalty against a backdrop of absurdity. Dale and Saul’s bond deepens as they navigate threats and misadventures together, showcasing the importance of having each other’s backs—even when the world seems to be against them. Whether it’s sharing a joint or getting into trouble, their camaraderie adds a heartfelt layer to the film, bringing warmth and laughter that resonates well with viewers who appreciate a good buddy story.
7. 2001: A Space Odyssey
Plot Overview: 2001: A Space Odyssey takes viewers on an epic journey through time and space. The film opens with the mysterious appearance of a monolith that somehow influences early human evolution. Fast forward to the future, and we follow a mission to Jupiter, led by astronaut Dave Bowman and the sentient AI, HAL 9000. As the story unfolds, the relationship between humans and technology deepens, leading to profound questions about existence.
Visual Effects: This film is renowned for its groundbreaking visual effects, which were ahead of their time and still awe-inspiring today. The meticulous attention to detail in spacecraft design, breathtaking space vistas, and the iconic ‘star gate’ sequence create a sensory experience that captivates viewers. Stanley Kubrick’s visionary direction and innovative techniques set a new standard in cinema and make the film a visual masterpiece that draws audiences into its vast universe.
Key Themes: 2001: A Space Odyssey isn’t just about the journey through space; it delves deep into themes of existence, evolution, and humanity’s place in the universe. The contrasting elements of technology and nature provoke thought about our future, and the film encourages viewers to contemplate larger existential questions. It’s a profound exploration that sparks discussions long after the credits roll—perfect for those moments when you’re in a contemplative mood and ready to ponder what it all means.
8. The Big Lebowski
Plot Overview: The Big Lebowski takes us on a quirky adventure featuring Jeff Leboski, aka “The Dude,” a laid-back slacker whose life is turned upside down when a case of mistaken identity leads to a wild kidnapping plot. With the help of his quirky friends, Walter and Donny, The Dude finds himself entangled in a bizarre series of escapades that blend crime, bowling, and the love of a good White Russian. It’s a film that wraps you in its unique charm and eccentric characters, all while keeping the laughs rolling.
Cult Classic Status: The Big Lebowski has achieved cult classic status, especially among stoners and laid-back folks looking for a good time. Its offbeat humor, memorable characters, and unforgettable scenarios resonate deeply, giving it a special place in pop culture. The film’s embrace of randomness and absurdity makes it the perfect flick for those chill evenings when you’re just hanging out with friends, ready to kick back and enjoy the ride.
Memorable Quotes: This film is loaded with iconic lines that fans can recite at the drop of a hat. From “The Dude abides” to “This is not ‘Nam; this is bowling,” the dialogue is peppered with quotable moments that capture The Dude’s laid-back philosophy on life. These memorable quotes not only highlight the film’s charm but also keep fans coming back for more, making it a beloved staple that continues to inspire laughter and camaraderie.
9. Being John Malkovich
Plot Overview: Being John Malkovich tells the quirky tale of a struggling puppeteer, Craig Schwartz. The puppeteer discovers a portal into the mind of movie star John Malkovich, and as Craig navigates this surreal experience, he grapples with the implications of identity and control, leading to a series of bizarre events that take him further into Malkovich’s psyche.
Visual Style: The film’s visual style is striking, marked by imaginative set designs and quirky cinematography that reflect the offbeat nature of its narrative. The portal itself—a small, almost mundane door—serves as a clever motif, representing the gateway between the ordinary and the extraordinary, and immersing viewers in a world where reality is turned upside down.
Point of the Movie: At its heart, Being John Malkovich is a poignant exploration of self-identity and the human experience. It encourages audiences to embrace their individuality and question what it truly means to ‘be yourself.’ The film posits that identity is fluid and can be influenced by external factors, serving as a reminder to celebrate the complexities of who we are in a world that sometimes seeks to define us.
10. Back to the Future
Plot Overview: Back to the Future is a beloved Universal Pictures sci-fi classic that transports viewers on a wild ride through a not too distant future. The story centers around Marty McFly, a high school student who accidentally travels back to 1955 in a DeLorean time machine invented by the eccentric Doc Brown. As Marty attempts to navigate the past, he inadvertently disrupts his parents’ first meeting, leading to a race against time to fix history and ensure his own existence.
80s Influence: The whole movie is a vibrant snapshot of the 1980s, capturing the decade’s fashion, music, and cultural references. From the energetic soundtrack featuring iconic tunes to the memorable characters decked out in retro attire, it serves as a playful homage to the era. The contrast between Marty’s modern style and the 50s setting creates not just comedic moments but a nostalgic reflection on how much has changed over the decades.
Themes: At its heart, Back to the Future explores themes of fate and the impact of our choices. It cleverly raises questions about the butterfly effect—how small actions can lead to massive changes in the future. As Marty grapples with unexpected challenges in the past, the film encourages viewers to think about their own decisions and their lasting repercussions. With its blend of adventure, humor, and an underlying message about the importance of family and friendship, Back to the Future remains a great movie that resonates with audiences of all ages.
Image: https://unsplash.com/photos/graphical-user-interface-JKfDuqD90pI Alt text: 3d render of different movie screens with streaming service logos
Best Movies to Watch While High: Conclusion
In a world bursting with unique perspectives and creative storytelling, films like Inception, Being John Malkovich, Her, and Pulp Fiction remind us of the power of cinema to challenge our perceptions of love, identity, and societal norms. Each narrative transports us to fantastical realms while grounding us in relatable themes, encouraging introspection and sparking meaningful conversations.
As we navigate our own lives (and get high along the way), these movies serve as reminders of the complexities of human connection and the importance of embracing our individuality, all wrapped up in entertaining and thought-provoking packages. So next time you settle in for a movie night, know that beyond the screen lies a treasure trove of ideas waiting to be explored.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the funniest movie to watch high?
When it comes to finding the funniest movie to enjoy while high, Superbad often tops the list. Its blend of awkward teenage antics, outrageous situations, and hilarious one-liners can leave you in stitches. Plus, the relatable friendships and over-the-top adventures make it a perfect choice for a light-hearted, laugh-filled night.
2. What makes a stoner comedy?
A stoner comedy is typically defined by its relaxed atmosphere, eccentric characters, and humorous takes on everyday situations, often fueled by cannabis or even substances like Penis Envy mushrooms. These films strip down complex themes, amplifying life’s absurdities to create comedic moments that resonate with audiences. Common elements include miscommunication, ridiculous scenarios, and an emphasis on friendship and carefree adventures.
3. What movie shall I watch tonight?
If you’re in the mood for something fun and light-hearted, consider Pineapple Express; one of the most classic stoner movies. It strikes the right balance between action and comedy, featuring a dynamic duo embroiled in a wild adventure after witnessing a crime. With its blend of humor and stoner culture, it’s sure to keep you entertained!
4. Is The Big Lebowski a stoner movie?
Absolutely! The Big Lebowski has earned its place as a classic stoner film. With its memorable characters, surreal plot twists, and iconic lines, it offers a unique blend of comedy and philosophy. The film’s laid-back protagonist, known as “The Dude,” embodies the stoner lifestyle, making it a beloved favorite among fans of the genre.
