High There

High There is a gripping documentary-style film from 2014 that uses humor and startling insights to explore drug culture, journalistic integrity, and legal issues related to marijuana. Starring Bala, Mrs. Bates, and Share Christie, the film adds a unique dimension to the ongoing dialogue about drug legalization and decriminalization.

The movie kicks off with director Wayne Darwen, also known as Bala in the film, journeying to the island of Hawaii to document an investigative piece on a marijuana-growing commune. An Australian television reporter known for his fearless journalistic exploits, Darwen's character takes us on a riveting journey that's as unpredictable as it is thought-provoking. Co-star Mrs. Bates plays herself, rounding out the ensemble with her depiction of a down-on-her-luck local resident who believes the commonplace drug use on the island is creating a dangerous and unstable environment for residents.

The plot thickens when the team plans to plant a sizable cannabis crop and film the process, aiming to produce an exposé on the marijuana trade and culture in Hawaii. Share Christie plays herself as a marijuana rights advocate and public figure who guides the team through the complex legal landscape surrounding marijuana cultivation. She’s a passionate force advocating for Hawaii's right to self-govern, and her dynamic presence adds depth and tension to the story.

As the movie progresses, it becomes clear that High There isn't just another stoner comedy in documentary form. It examines the complexities of the cannabis culture: from the communal growers who see it as a lifestyle and passion to the critics who believe the trend is damaging their communities. It is a wild ride through the highs and lows, the dreams and the nightmares, of the marijuana trade.

Simultaneously, the film acts as a character study of Darwen himself. It showcases his knack for pushing boundaries as a journalist while exposing his own spiraling descent into addiction—a darkly comedic examination of a man intent on challenging society's norms, but who constantly challenges his own existence.

High There also spotlights the socio-economic issues that continue to revolve around the discussion of marijuana legalization. The film shows the contrast between areas where marijuana has been legalized or generally accepted, and the stark circumstances faced by those in regions where it remains criminalized. This social commentary adds another level of depth to the film, taking audiences beyond the immediate storyline to ponder the broader implications.

Moreover, the legal battle depicted in the film doesn't merely focus on marijuana itself. Share Christie’s character brings another angle on the issue, defending Hawaii's local culture and jurisdiction against external forces—an engaging sub-plot that fuels the discussion around federal versus state rights and control.

At its heart, High There is a dark comedy with a documentary disposition. It feels real and raw, capturing moments that are hilariously absurd yet undeniably poignant. Bala, Mrs. Bates, and Share Christie each bring their unique personas to the screen, provoking laughter, empathy, and a spectrum of emotions in between. High There aims to present an intricate blend of comedy, drama, and social commentary, demanding that audiences look beyond surface-level humor to engage with its deeper messages.

Just as one might expect from a film exploring the world of marijuana cultivation and usage, High There is filled with colorful characters, strange occurrences, and plenty of twists and turns. Yet, it's the way these elements are combined and crafted into a narrative that is at once charmingly chaotic and remarkably insightful that sets the film apart.

Whether you support marijuana legalization, oppose it, or find yourself somewhere in between, High There is a film that pushes audiences to reconsider their views. Offering much more than simple stoner fun, this thought-provoking experience will stimulate both laughter and critical thinking, making it a recommended watch for those who appreciate cinema that challenges the norms and takes audiences on a trip to the rarely seen corners of society.