Marihuana (1936)
Cult Classics
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Classics, History
“Marihuana” (1936), produced by exploitation filmmaker Dwain Esper, is a provocative and sensational cautionary film that aimed to warn the public about the supposed dangers of marijuana use. Often grouped with Reefer Madness, this cult classic follows the story of a young woman whose carefree beach party leads to a series of tragic events after she’s lured into trying marijuana. As addiction and crime spiral around her, the film delves into themes of moral decay, peer pressure, and the social fears of the 1930s. A mix of melodrama and propaganda, Marihuana is a compelling piece of exploitation cinema that reflects the era’s anxieties and stands as a significant cultural artifact in the history of anti-drug media.
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