“How High”
A product of early 2000s stoner comedies, “How High” may feel a bit dated in its liberal use of racial stereotypes. However, it’s also an incredibly funny movie due to the chemistry between its two leads, Method Man and Redman, and the absurd scenario they are placed in. With one of the “best” concepts for a comedy (magical weed grown in their deceased friend’s ashes helps them get good grades to get into Harvard), the sheer absurdity of the film is ripe with comedic potential. It’s also relatable to many college students using the same mindset as our heroes of the story (“Study high, take the test high, get high grades”). Anyone looking for an easy laugh or looking to see two rappers take on the Ivy League could do far worse than this movie.
“Pineapple Express”
Imagine Brad Pitt’s character from “True Romance” accidentally becoming involved in a drug dealer’s criminal activities, add laugh-out-loud moments of comedy, and you’re left with the action-comedy, “Pineapple Express.” Dale Denton (Seth Rogen) and his drug dealer Saul (James Franco) go on the run when Denton witnesses a big-time drug dealer (Gary Cole) and a dirty cop (Rosa Perez) murder their competition. Both Rogen and Franco are never better in their comedic repartee as two stoners trying to survive when in way over their heads. Not only is it one of the funniest of the 2000s Apatow produced comedies, it’s also a surprisingly competent action film. Supporting roles for Danny McBride, Craig Robinson, and Kevin Corrigan add to the fun, making this an Express train you’ll want to hop on.
“Super Troopers”
With the sequel out on 4/20, there is no better time to watch this comedy classic. The film’s plot revolves around Vermont state troopers trying to save their jobs and out-do the local police department by solving a mysterious crime. While “Beerfest” and “Club Dread” each have their strengths, “Super Troopers” provides the best showcase for the Broken Lizard comedy troupe and their immature, yet hysterical, shenanigans. With jokes that are still quoted nearly 20 years later, it’s easy to see why a sequel eventually happened, even if fans are cautious about the sequel’s ability to capture the magic of the first.
Honorable Mention:
With a Top 10 list, there were bound to be kilos of comedies that just missed the cut. A few worth mentioning include: “Smiley Face,” any other Cheech & Chong movie, “Reefer Madness,” “Clerks,” “Jay & Silent Bob Strike Back,” “Fast Times At Ridgemont High,” “Dude, Where’s My Car,” and obviously, dozens more. This is just a little dime bag for today, the weekend, and whenever strikes your fancy
Whatever you decide to watch on this dankest of holidays, grab a couple buds and enjoy yourself with some of these films.