Marijuana has found a new sense of belonging and understanding as it continues to be legalized in more parts of the world. With more freedom around cannabis, we now have the opportunity to explore it in different ways. Whether it’s listening to music, exercising, or just relaxing, weed can really enhance those experiences.
In today’s blog, we’ll explore how weed can elevate the movie-watching experience. Cinephiles and potheads alike are always looking for new sensations and ways to get lost in a world that helps them disconnect from reality. Grab your popcorn, put your phone on do not disturb, and let’s look at what movies you should watch with different strains.
No Place Like Home: What's The Hype?
Watching movies high is hyped up for a reason. Of course, there are thousands of films that are brilliant regardless of your state of mind, but experiencing them with cannabis can enhance the experience even more.
Deep Immersion
Cannabis can increase euphoria, bringing you into a whole different world. It gives you that feeling of clicking your heels three times and stepping somewhere else entirely. The soundtrack may sound groundbreaking, the comedy will have you laughing your socks off, and the plot might feel a little too real. The experience is unlike any other.
New Appreciation
Whether you’re watching a new movie or a comfort film, being high can give you a completely new point of view. If you haven’t experienced your favorite film with cannabis, we definitely recommend it as it might feel like you’re watching it for the first time.
Increased Relaxation
We get it, sitting down and fully focusing on a movie can be hard. We live in an age where free time is limited, and it’s easy to fall into doomscrolling through TikTok and Instagram Reels. Getting a little high before a film can help you slow down, sit back, and enjoy the magic happening right in front of you.
Fun Fact: Reefer Madness (1936) is one of the earliest films to feature marijuana. However, its depiction was more cautionary than celebratory. Today, cannabis is often portrayed in a more comedic and positive light.
The Indica Smokers
Now it’s time to jump into different strains and smoking experiences. Let’s start with indica. If this strain is more your vibe, we recommend watching something that will leave you feeling calm and completely relaxed. This is the perfect time to revisit a comfort movie or even a childhood favorite. If you need help getting started, here are three picks Empire Smokes recommends:
Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit (2005)
Who doesn’t love this duo? This movie balances fun, playful action without relying on a ton of dialogue. On top of that, the colors and claymation style are incredible. If you’re looking for a film that feels like a warm hug, this is it.
Babe (1995)
If you’re not familiar with this Oscar-winning film, it’s about a talking pig who learns he can be anything he wants. The concept is absurd in the most heartfelt way possible. Watching this while high will leave you in awe! It's a classic.
Sleeping Beauty (1959)
You’ve probably seen this one before, but it hits differently in this setting. The soundtrack is beautiful, the animation is dreamy, and the Maleficent dragon is low-key terrifying. Don’t worry, it’s still a cozy watch, but nothing like what’s coming next. 👀
The Sativa Smokers
Let’s be honest: getting a little paranoid while high is sometimes part of the fun. While indica helps ease you into full-body relaxation, sativa strains tend to keep you alert and on your toes. That’s exactly why we’re recommending films that will have you stressed one second and laughing the next.
Smiley Face (2007)
This is the ultimate stoner movie. If you haven’t seen it… what are you doing? Go fix that. The film perfectly captures the chaos of being high in public. It might even stress you out while sober. Anna Faris absolutely carries with a hilarious, unhinged performance.
Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas (1998)
Smiley Face is goofy and grounded—this one is pure chaos. The visuals, the pacing, the dialogue… it all feels like a fever dream. One of our Empire Smokes members said they had to keep rewinding just to make sure they were seeing and hearing things right. Honestly, that says it all.
Anora (2024)
Yes, this one is anxiety-inducing, but a bit more grounded than the others. It took home Best Picture at the 2025 Academy Awards for a reason. It’s emotional, funny, and stressful in the most engaging way, making it a great watch if you want something intense but still digestible.
The Hybrid Smokers
If you’re more of a hybrid person, we recommend going for something visually stunning. Not too relaxing, not too stressful, just a beautifully made film that will leave you in awe. Here are three we think are incredible:
Nowhere (1997)
From the same director as Smiley Face, this film leans fully into chaos, but in a colorful, stylized way. Alien abductions, bad trips, and vibrant visuals… it really has it all. It’s weird, fast-paced, and perfect if you want something that constantly keeps your eyes engaged.
James and the Giant Peach (1996)
If you’re a fan of Coraline or The Nightmare Before Christmas, you need to give this one a shot. It blends live action and claymation in a way that makes both worlds feel magical. The visuals are creative, colorful, and super immersive.
The Wiz (1978)
If you’ve seen recent coverage of Michael Jackson, you might already know he played the Scarecrow here. This musical is packed with incredible songs, bold set designs, and impressive practical effects. It’s vibrant, energetic, and a great hybrid watch.
To help you get started on your cinephile and pothead journey, Empire Smokes has a variety of movie related products to get you in the spirit! Whether you dab with your beloved Puffco or smoke from a heady glass bong, we got something special for you!
