Watch Canapa Nostra

Canapa Nostra is a fascinating documentary that explores the world of cannabis in Italy. Directed by Francesco Amato, the film takes an in-depth look at the history of cannabis use in the country, from its introduction by colonizers to its prohibition in the 1950s and the thriving illegal market that exists today. The film opens with a stunning aerial shot of the Italian countryside, as the narrator explains the long history of hemp farming in the region. Hemp, which is a strain of cannabis with very low levels of THC, was once widely cultivated for its fiber and seed oil. However, with the rise of the drug war in the 20th century, hemp was lumped in with marijuana and other psychoactive strains of cannabis and outlawed in many parts of the world.

The documentary then moves to the present day, where we meet a diverse cast of characters who are involved in the cannabis industry in Italy. These include growers, activists, lawyers, and politicians, all of whom have different opinions on the legality and regulation of cannabis.

One of the most interesting sections of the film is a visit to a large, illegal cannabis farm hidden in the mountains of southern Italy. The grower, who goes by the name of "Mario," describes how he and his team have developed their own strains of cannabis, which they sell on the black market to consumers who are unwilling to pay the high prices of legal cannabis.

The film also takes a closer look at the medical benefits of cannabis, interviewing doctors who prescribe cannabis to their patients for a range of ailments, from chronic pain to epilepsy. These doctors are often operating in a legal gray area, as cannabis is still classified as a Schedule I drug in Italy, meaning that it has no recognized medical value.

Throughout the film, the director provides a balanced perspective on the cannabis industry in Italy, exploring both the potential benefits and risks of legalization. On the one hand, legal cannabis could provide a much-needed economic boost to struggling rural communities and reduce the power of organized crime. On the other hand, there are concerns about the potential for increased addiction and impaired driving, as well as the risk of corporations taking over the industry and squeezing out small-scale growers.

Overall, Canapa Nostra is a fascinating and informative look at one of the most controversial and rapidly-changing industries in the world. The film is well-researched and features a diverse range of viewpoints, making it an essential watch for anyone interested in the future of cannabis legalization in Italy and beyond.

Canapa Nostra is a 2019 documentary with a runtime of 56 minutes.