Smoking THC and watching movies is a tradition as old as cinema itself. From trippy visuals to weed-fueled comedy, movies and marijuana have always had a special relationship.

But how did we get here? How did stoner movies become a genre of their own? Let’s take a trip through the history of stoner cinema, from its early days of anti-weed propaganda to the legendary cult classics we all know and love today.

Then, stick around for the ultimate list of stoner movies—whether you’re looking for mind-blowing visuals, hilarious comedies, or surreal adventures, we’ve got the perfect film for your high.

A Brief History of Weed & Cinema

The Propaganda Era: "Reefer Madness" (1936)

In the 1930s, Hollywood wasn’t exactly pro-weed. The U.S. government and the media waged a full-scale war on cannabis, and movies were one of their most powerful weapons. Enter Reefer Madness—a hilariously over-the-top anti-weed film that warned audiences that smoking pot would lead to insanity, crime, and even murder.

What they didn’t expect? Decades later, stoners would flip the script and turn Reefer Madness into a cult classic, laughing at its ridiculous portrayal of cannabis and embracing it as one of the first “stoner movies” (even if unintentionally).

The Counterculture Movement: "Easy Rider" (1969)

By the 1960s and ’70s, the world was changing—weed culture was growing, and so was Hollywood’s willingness to embrace it. Easy Rider became a defining film of the era, featuring real stoners smoking real weed on camera. It wasn’t a comedy, but it captured the free-spirited, rebellious energy of cannabis culture.

The Birth of Stoner Comedy: Cheech & Chong Take Over (1970s-1980s)

Then came Cheech & Chong—the godfathers of stoner comedy. With films like Up in Smoke (1978), they fully embraced weed culture, creating laugh-out-loud, weed-fueled adventures that celebrated getting high, running into absurd situations, and just vibing with your friends.

The Modern Stoner Film: The Seth Rogen Era (2000s-Present)

By the 2000s, stoner movies became mainstream, with actors like Seth Rogen, James Franco, and Kal Penn leading the charge. Films like Pineapple Express, Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle, and Superbad brought weed culture to the masses, mixing comedy with action, adventure, and insanely quotable moments.

The Best Stoner Movies to Watch While High

Now that we’ve explored the history, let’s get into the ultimate movie list for your next smoke session. Whether you’re looking for deep, trippy, or just ridiculously funny, there’s something here for every kind of high.

1. Pineapple Express (2008)

Starring: Seth Rogen, James Franco, Danny McBride
Perfect for: Non-stop laughter, action-packed chaos, and a whole lot of weed

What happens when a pot dealer and his stoner client witness a murder? They go on the run, high as ever, while trying to survive mobsters, corrupt cops, and their own terrible decision-making. Pineapple Express is one of the most legendary stoner comedies ever, packed with iconic one-liners, action scenes, and classic weed humor.

Best Scene to Watch Stoned: The cross joint scene—where Saul explains the art of rolling the ultimate stoner joint.

Munchies Pairing: Nachos with everything on them.

Stoner Alternative: Cheech & Chong’s Up in Smoke (1978)—the original weed comedy that started it all.

2. Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle (2004)

Starring: John Cho, Kal Penn, Neil Patrick Harris
Perfect for: That moment when the munchies hit hard

Every stoner knows the struggle—you get high, you want one specific food, and suddenly, nothing else matters. Harold and Kumar’s journey to White Castle is a ridiculous, over-the-top adventure that’s basically one giant munchies-fueled trip.

Best Scene to Watch Stoned: The cheetah ride scene—because why wouldn’t two stoners ride a wild animal?

Munchies Pairing: Sliders, curly fries, or literally anything greasy.

Stoner Alternative: Dude, Where’s My Car? (2000)—because sometimes, being too high means forgetting where you parked.

3. Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas (1998)

Starring: Johnny Depp, Benicio del Toro
Perfect for: Edibles hitting way too hard

This isn’t just a movie—it’s a psychedelic trip wrapped in chaotic storytelling. Based on Hunter S. Thompson’s drug-fueled misadventures, Fear and Loathing is packed with insane visuals, hilarious paranoia, and a completely unhinged Johnny Depp.

Best Scene to Watch Stoned: The hotel lobby scene, where reality completely melts.

Munchies Pairing: A giant bag of Skittles.

Stoner Alternative: 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)—for when you want to take your high to another dimension.

4. The Big Lebowski (1998)

Starring: Jeff Bridges, John Goodman, Steve Buscemi
Perfect for: That mellow, chilled-out high

“The Dude” is the ultimate stoner hero—a laid-back bowler who just wants to relax but keeps getting caught in absurd situations. If you want to sit back, smoke, and watch a movie that’s basically one long chill session, this is it.

Best Scene to Watch Stoned: The dream bowling sequence—it’s pure stoner art.

Munchies Pairing: A chocolate milkshake or a White Russian.

Stoner Alternative: Half Baked (1998)—because Dave Chappelle understands the stoner struggle.

Final Toke: What’s the Best Stoner Movie?

It all depends on your high:

• If you want to laugh uncontrollably: Pineapple Express or Superbad
• If you want to go on a deep trip: 2001: A Space Odyssey
• If your munchies are out of control: Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle
• If your edible just kicked in: Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas

No matter what strain you’re smoking, these movies will take your high to the next level. So light up, grab some snacks, and enjoy the ride.

What’s your all-time favorite stoner movie? Drop your picks below!