Rolling Papers

Rolling Papers is a feature documentary film released in 2015, directed by Mitch Dickman. The film provides an interesting and in-depth look into the cultural shift experienced in Colorado, the first state in the US to legalize marijuana for recreational use. The movie expands its focus to highlight the changing attitudes and societal views towards marijuana across the nation, using the groundbreaking journalism of Ricardo Baca as its focal point. Baca, a seasoned journalist, becomes a pioneering figure as he is appointed the first-ever marijuana editor at Denver Post following the legalization.

As a point of focus, the movie introduces Ricardo Baca, a 20-year veteran of the Denver Post who becomes the first marijuana editor of the newspaper after Colorado passed Amendment 64, legalizing recreational marijuana. Baca was then tasked with launching "The Cannabist", a marijuana-focused section of Denver Post. This marked the first time a major daily newspaper had a marijuana section, marking a significant point in normalizing dialogue around this historically stigmatized substance.

The film follows Baca's journey and delivers a hands-on perspective on the nuances of reporting marijuana stories, giving viewers a glimpse into the evolving cultural and professional landscape of the cannabis industry. The movie explores the rapidly growing cannabis industry in Colorado, and Baca's ground-breaking forays into the issues, business, and culture of legalized marijuana.

In addition, the film features contributions from a cast of colorful characters which includes Whoopi Goldberg and a mixed set of journalists, pot growers, edible bakers, and a range of consumers who contribute to the ongoing narrative. Goldberg serves as executive producer, adding a mainstream appeal and a dash of Hollywood to the film. Meanwhile, Ryan Clendenin, another journalist featured in the film, mirrors the evolving socio-political climate concerning marijuana use in his reporting and interactions.

Through individual stories and personal perspectives, Rolling Papers acts as a time capsule, capturing Colorado's early experiences from the frontier of marijuana legalization. The film discusses the various aspects of the marijuana industry in a frank, open manner, including issues related to law enforcement, health, economy, and society. This documentary is also unique in its exploration of a truly complex media issue – the challenges, and joys, of reporting on a topic that is rapidly moving from the outskirts to the mainstream of American life.

The documentary does not shy away from providing a balanced perspective. It addresses the mixed feelings and views regarding marijuana legalization. From highlighting the economic boom and the new opportunities that have come with this change, to focusing on the lingering skepticism and resistance from certain corners of society, Rolling Papers presents a well-rounded view. The documentary also delves into the regulation process, the challenges faced by paper journalists in a digitalizing world, and the impact recreational marijuana has had on Colorado since its legalization.

As Rolling Papers unfolds, it doesn't just tell the story of marijuana's journey from an illicit substance to a mainstream commodity in Colorado. It also captures the essence of the evolving media landscape in an era of significant technological, cultural, and legislative changes. Baca's perseverance, open-mindedness, and commitment to unbiased reporting make him an intriguing figure to follow. Even viewers who don't normally indulge in marijuana-related content will be captivated by the way the documentary seamlessly combines journalism, business, and culture.

In all, Rolling Papers breathes life into a unique moment of American history, a significant cultural shift that was watched by the whole world. It represents a nuanced look at today's increasingly permissive attitudes towards marijuana while encapsulating the excitement, challenges, and everyday realities of working in an industry that was previously illegal. This film offers an entertaining, thought-provoking, and ultimately enlightening discussion of Colorado's marijuana experiment, and the many questions that it continues to raise about the future of marijuana legalization in the United States. Whether you're interested in media studies, contemporary business, or the cultural narrative around marijuana, Rolling Papers is a noteworthy documentary that provides excellent food for thought.