California High

California High is a film that delves into the ongoing debate surrounding the legalization of marijuana in California. The movie revolves around the life of a young and ambitious journalist named Matt, who lands a job at a local newspaper in San Francisco. Matt's editor assigns him to write about the emerging cannabis industry in the state, which sparks his curiosity about the complex history behind marijuana's prohibition. As Matt digs deeper into the matter, he discovers that the origins of marijuana prohibition in California date back to the early 20th century. During the 1910s, cannabis was first introduced to the United States by Mexican immigrants, who used it for medicinal and recreational purposes. Initially, the American public viewed marijuana as a harmless plant with various uses, including as a treatment for pain and other ailments. However, the tide of public opinion shifted drastically in the 1920s and 1930s, as the Mexican Revolution and the rise of organized crime led to a surge in marijuana use. The plant became associated with violence, crime, and immorality, and many Americans began to view it as a threat to society. Matt's research reveals that the primary driving force behind marijuana prohibition in California was a group of women from San Francisco's elite community, who were determined to protect their children from the perceived dangers of cannabis. These women, including the influential Annie Russell, launched a propaganda campaign against marijuana, portraying it as a deadly and corrupting influence on young people. The campaign, which included the dissemination of false and exaggerated information about the risks of marijuana use, ultimately led to the passage of the 1913 California law prohibiting the sale and possession of cannabis. The law was later reinforced by the 1937 federal Marijuana Tax Act, which effectively prohibited the plant across the United States. Matt's investigation takes him to Los Angeles, where he meets a group of cannabis entrepreneurs, activists, and patients who are fighting for the right to use and cultivate marijuana. One of the activists he meets is Emma, a strong-willed and charismatic woman who has been using cannabis for medicinal purposes for years. Emma shares with Matt her personal story of how she discovered the healing properties of cannabis after being diagnosed with a debilitating illness. She takes him on a tour of the Los Angeles cannabis market, showcasing the various products and services available to patients. Matt's encounter with Emma and the Los Angeles cannabis community leaves him with a new perspective on the issue. He begins to question the validity of the claims made by marijuana's opponents and starts to see the plant in a different light. He realizes that the prohibition on cannabis has not only led to the harassment and persecution of patients and entrepreneurs but also deprived the state of significant tax revenue and economic opportunities. As Matt continues his research, he becomes increasingly convinced that the law governing marijuana in California is outdated and unjust. He decides to take matters into his own hands and presents his findings to the public through the newspaper. The public's response to Matt's article is overwhelming, with many readers expressing their support for the legalization of marijuana. The article sparks a renewed debate about the issue, and Matt finds himself at the center of a media firestorm. As the controversy surrounding marijuana legalization continues to escalate, Matt is approached by a group of cannabis activists who invite him to join their campaign. Emma, who has become a close friend and ally, is one of the leaders of the group, which includes other influential figures in the cannabis community. Together, they launch a grassroots movement to reform California's marijuana laws, using social media, public events, and other tactics to raise awareness and mobilize public support. Matt's involvement in the campaign not only deepens his understanding of the issue but also transforms him into a dedicated advocate for marijuana legalization. Throughout the film, Matt's narrative is interwoven with archival footage, newsreels, and other historical materials that provide context and background information on the origins and evolution of marijuana prohibition in California. The documentary-style format adds to the film's educational value, making it an engaging and informative resource for viewers interested in the history of cannabis in the United States. As the movement gains momentum, Matt finds himself facing opposition from powerful forces, including law enforcement agencies, politicians, and corporate interests. Emma's family is also targeted, and she faces harassment and intimidation from those who seek to silence the cannabis community. The film builds towards a dramatic conclusion, as Matt and Emma take to the streets to rally support for their cause. They join thousands of protesters in a massive march through the streets of Los Angeles, advocating for the legalization of marijuana. In the final scenes, the film jumps forward in time, showing the passage of Proposition 64, a ballot initiative that legalized recreational cannabis in California. The passage of the measure is depicted as a testament to the power of grassroots activism and the determination of individuals like Matt and Emma who risked everything to fight for their rights. California High is a compelling and thought-provoking film that provides a nuanced exploration of the complex history and politics surrounding marijuana in California. By presenting a balanced and informed perspective on the issue, the film encourages viewers to think critically about the pros and cons of marijuana legalization and to engage with the ongoing debate in a informed and nuanced way.