Elevated Minds : Movies for Your Next Sesh
As winter months roll in, we roll up! Cannabis has the remarkable talent at keeping the darkness at bay as the days begin to get dimmer. At Starbird, we talk a lot about using cannabis with intention and for relief- and nothing is better for your stress levels than a packed bowl and a good movie. But it’s often hard to wade through of the endless sea of Netflix Originals. Our team has compiled a list of their favorite flicks to watch while high - comfort films, experimental cinema and some good comedy classics. Of course, there’s Pineapple Express , Half Baked and Up In Smoke that we all love. We did our best to stray from the obvious flicks, and have some choices that you might have never seen!
Easy Rider
Easy Rider, a cinematic masterpiece, resonates deeply with those raised in the 60s and 70s. With an all-star cast featuring Dennis Hopper, Peter Fonda, and Jack Nicholson, the film takes viewers on an unforgettable journey. Two Harley-riding hippies, portrayed by Hopper and Fonda, traverse the stunning desert landscapes of the Southwest en route to New Orleans. Brimming with iconic 60s music, LSD-fueled escapades, and, of course, marijuana, Easy Rider encapsulates the free-spirited essence of its era. Light a joint, settle in, and discover why this film remains a generational touchstone.
The Endless Summer
Another sixties masterpiece! The Endless Summer is a breathtaking documentary that captures the beauty, adventure, and philosophy of surf culture. Directed by Bruce Brown, this iconic film follows two surfers, Mike Hynson and Robert August, as they chase summer across the globe, searching for the perfect wave. With stunning visuals of exotic beaches and the soothing rhythm of 60s surf rock, the movie creates a tranquil yet exhilarating vibe that pairs perfectly with a mellow high. Grab your favorite strain, let the sound of the ocean wash over you, and experience why The Endless Summer is considered the ultimate ode to a surfer's dream.
Lords of Dogtown
If you aren’t in the mood for a documentary but are craving a great story with a beachy vibe, Lords of Dogtown is the perfect pick. This gritty and captivating film dives into the rise of skateboarding culture in 1970s Venice, California. Starring Heath Ledger, Emile Hirsch, and John Robinson, the movie brings to life the rebellious energy and innovative spirit of the legendary Z-Boys as they transform empty swimming pools into canvases for their revolutionary skating style. The raw energy, sun-soaked visuals, and killer soundtrack make it a thrilling ride. Spark up a doobie, kick back, and let Lords of Dogtown take you on a wild trip through the birth of a cultural phenomenon.
Labyrinth
Labyrinth, directed by Jim Henson and starring the mesmerizing David Bowie alongside a young Jennifer Connelly, is a whimsical journey into a magical, mind-bending world. The film follows Sarah as she ventures through an intricate maze to rescue her baby brother from the enigmatic Goblin King, played with unforgettable charm by Bowie. With surreal visuals, fantastical creatures, and a dreamlike soundtrack, this 80s classic offers an imaginative escape that pairs perfectly with a high. This one might be better suited for some edibles to enhance the film that much more ! Lose yourself in the labyrinth, and prepare for an unforgettable cinematic adventure filled with wonder and Bowie’s ethereal presence.
Spirited Away
Hayao Miyazaki’s Spirited Away is a visually stunning masterpiece that transports viewers to a magical world like no other. The story follows Chihiro, a young girl who stumbles into a mysterious spirit realm and must navigate its enchanting yet eerie bathhouse to save her parents. Bursting with whimsical characters, surreal landscapes, and profound themes of identity and courage, this Studio Ghibli classic is a sensory delight. Let the vibrant colors and intricate details wash over you, and get ready for a transcendent journey through one of the most beloved animated films of all time.
Fantastic Planet
Fantastic Planet (1973), directed by René Laloux, is a mind-bending French animated film that feels like stepping into an alien dream. Set on a distant world where giant blue beings, the Draags, rule over tiny human-like creatures called Oms, the story is a surreal exploration of power, freedom, and survival. The film’s eerie, otherworldly animation style and hypnotic soundtrack create a uniquely unsettling yet captivating atmosphere. Perfect for when you’re stoned and craving something completely out of the ordinary, Fantastic Planet invites you to lose yourself in its strange, beautiful, and deeply thought-provoking universe.
The Princess Bride
The Princess Bride is a whimsical classic that blends romance, comedy, and adventure into one endlessly quotable experience. Directed by Rob Reiner and featuring a charming cast led by Cary Elwes, Robin Wright, and Mandy Patinkin, this tale of true love and daring rescue is packed with unforgettable moments. From epic sword fights to R.O.U.S. (Rodents of Unusual Size), every scene brims with humor, heart, and fantastical fun. Pick your poison, settle in, and let The Princess Bride take you on a delightful journey through the land of Florin—you’ll be laughing and cheering “As you wish!” all the way through.
Wizards (1977)
Ralph Bakshi’s Wizards is a psychedelic blend of fantasy, science fiction, and countercultural vibes that makes it a must-watch for a surreal experience. Set in a post-apocalyptic world where magic and technology collide, the story follows a wizard named Avatar as he battles his evil brother, Blackwolf, who seeks to conquer the world with ancient war machines. With its unique animation style, groovy visuals, and offbeat humor, Wizards is a wild ride through an alternate reality. This one is phenomenal when you are BAKED, so dive into this cult classic, and let its bizarre charm and trippy aesthetics take your imagination to magical new heights.
Evil Bong
How could we be a Salem dispensary without including a horror flick ? Evil Bong is a cult classic that fully embraces its absurdity, making it the perfect watch for when you’re high and in the mood for a good laugh. Directed by Charles Band and featuring the cannabis icon himself; Tommy Chong! This outrageous horror-comedy follows a group of friends who unwittingly unleash the powers of a cursed bong. What follows is a trippy adventure filled with cheesy effects, over-the-top humor, and plenty of cannabis-fueled chaos. It’s as ridiculous as it sounds—and that’s what makes it so entertaining. Pack a fat bowl, hit play, and prepare for a so-bad-it’s-good experience that will leave you cracking up.
Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure
Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure is a totally bodacious trip through time, packed with humor, heart, and unforgettable 80s vibes. Starring Keanu Reeves and Alex Winter as two lovable slackers tasked with acing their history report to save the future, this film takes you on a wild ride through history with iconic figures like Socrates, Napoleon, and Joan of Arc. With its quirky charm, feel-good energy, and endless quotability (“Be excellent to each other!”), this movie pairs perfectly with a mellow buzz. So grab your stash, and your best bud, and get ready for a most excellent adventure!
Whether you see some films you recognize or this list is completely fresh for you, exploring these cinematic gems is always a rewarding journey. Movies have the power to connect us, provoke thought, and offer a brief escape from our daily lives. Cannabis is a natural enhancer to the big pictures, illuminating the visuals and making each director’s choices impactful. So, grab some gummies, settle in, and enjoy the magic of storytelling. Don’t forget to share your favorites or let us at Starbird know which ones you'll be adding to your must-watch list. Happy viewing!
Fly high!