How High, released in 2001, starring Method Man and Snoop Dogg, is a stoner comedy that explores themes of ambition, friendship, and challenging societal expectations, all viewed through the lens of marijuana-induced escapades. While undeniably a celebration of cannabis culture, the film surprisingly presents a narrative where academic success, albeit unconventional, becomes the ultimate goal.
The Core of How High: More Than Just a Stoner Movie?
How High transcends the simplistic label of “stoner movie” by subtly weaving in elements of social commentary. While it revels in the comedic possibilities arising from marijuana use, it simultaneously underscores the importance of education and self-improvement. The film’s narrative arc sees Silas (Method Man) and Jamal (Snoop Dogg), two habitually high underachievers, achieving unprecedented academic success at Harvard University, thanks to the magical properties of Silas’s fertilizer: the ashes of his deceased friend, Ivory. This seemingly absurd premise serves as a catalyst for exploring themes of intellectual potential, challenging societal norms, and the power of unconventional learning methods. The film satirizes the elitism and rigidity often associated with institutions like Harvard, suggesting that intelligence and potential can be found in unexpected places and people. While the method of achieving success is fantastical, the underlying message resonates: education and personal growth are within reach, even for those who don’t fit the traditional mold.
Key Themes Explored in How High
How High delves into various relatable themes:
- The Power of Friendship: The unwavering bond between Silas and Jamal is a driving force throughout the film. Their loyalty and support for each other, even amidst chaotic situations, highlight the importance of strong relationships.
- Challenging Stereotypes: The film challenges the stereotypes associated with marijuana users, portraying Silas and Jamal as intelligent, resourceful individuals capable of academic achievement.
- The Importance of Education: Despite their unconventional methods, Silas and Jamal ultimately recognize the value of education and strive to succeed academically.
- Critique of Elitism: How High satirizes the elitist nature of prestigious institutions like Harvard, suggesting that intelligence and potential are not limited to those who attend such schools.
- Unconventional Learning: The film humorously explores the idea that learning can occur in unconventional ways and that traditional methods may not be suitable for everyone.
Impact and Legacy of How High
How High has become a cult classic within the stoner comedy genre. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to its hilarious performances, catchy soundtrack, and relatable themes. The film helped to popularize cannabis culture in mainstream media and contributed to a broader conversation about the social and legal status of marijuana. While its humor is often crass and over-the-top, How High also offers a surprisingly insightful commentary on education, friendship, and societal expectations. The film’s success spawned discussions about its impact on perceptions of marijuana use and its portrayal of marginalized communities. The success of the movie launched Method Man and Snoop Dogg further into the mainstream entertainment world.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQ 1: What is the source of Silas’s “special” fertilizer?
Silas’s “special” fertilizer consists of the ashes of his deceased friend, Ivory. When smoked, these ashes allegedly grant the user enhanced intelligence and access to Ivory’s knowledge.
FAQ 2: Where does How High primarily take place?
The majority of the film takes place at Harvard University after Silas and Jamal are accepted based on their unexpectedly high THC-influenced test scores.
FAQ 3: Besides Method Man and Snoop Dogg, who are some other notable actors in How High?
Notable actors include Obba Babatundé as Dean Cain, Mike Epps as Baby Powder, Anna Maria Horsford as Chancellor Greenwald, and Hector Elizondo as Professor Hunt.
FAQ 4: What is the central conflict that Silas and Jamal face at Harvard?
Silas and Jamal struggle to adapt to the demanding academic environment and maintain their high GPA, while also navigating the complexities of Harvard society and trying to keep their marijuana use a secret.
FAQ 5: Does How High have a sequel?
Yes, there is a sequel titled How High 2, released in 2019, but it does not feature Method Man or Snoop Dogg and was critically panned.
FAQ 6: What is the name of the standardized test that Silas and Jamal take?
The standardized test is a fictional exam called the “THC,” which is obviously a playful take on standard exams like the SAT or ACT. The film uses the THC test to satirize the reliance on standardized testing in college admissions.
FAQ 7: What kind of jobs do Silas and Jamal have before getting into Harvard?
Silas works as a marijuana cultivator, while Jamal works various odd jobs, often involving his entrepreneurial schemes and humorous hustles.
FAQ 8: What is the name of Snoop Dogg’s character in How High?
Snoop Dogg plays the character Jamal King.
FAQ 9: What are some of the comedic scenarios Silas and Jamal find themselves in at Harvard?
Some comedic scenarios include teaching a class on marijuana, using their heightened intelligence to cheat on exams, and accidentally burning down a historical building. The film uses these over-the-top situations to highlight the absurdity of their situation and provide comedic relief.
FAQ 10: What is the overall message of How High regarding education?
While the film is a comedy, it subtly suggests that education can be empowering and transformative, even for those who come from unconventional backgrounds or have different learning styles. It encourages viewers to challenge societal expectations and pursue their own paths to success.
FAQ 11: What is the significance of the ending of How High?
The ending sees Silas and Jamal choosing different paths, with Silas pursuing his passion for botany and Jamal joining the law. This highlights the idea that success can be defined in various ways and that individuals should follow their own interests.
FAQ 12: How has the reception of How High changed over time?
Initially met with mixed reviews, How High has since gained a cult following and is now considered a classic of the stoner comedy genre. Its themes of friendship, challenging stereotypes, and the pursuit of education continue to resonate with audiences.