Watch RiffTrax Features: Reefer Madness
- 2010
- 1 hr 44 min
RiffTrax Features: Reefer Madness is a hilarious satire of the 1936 propaganda film of the same name, which aimed to demonize and exaggerate the dangers of marijuana use. The RiffTrax version features commentary from the witty and irreverent trio of Bill Corbett, Kevin Murphy, and Michael J. Nelson, who provide hilarious and insightful observations throughout the film.
The movie starts with a warning that reiterates the cannabis propaganda of the time, with ominous claims about the dangers of the drug. However, as soon as the film starts, the RiffTrax team jumps in with their commentary, and the tone quickly turns from serious to silly. The hosts mock the over-the-top acting, cheesy special effects, and stilted dialogue, turning a moralizing propaganda piece into a delightful mockery.
Reefer Madness follows a group of young adults who become addicted to marijuana and spiral into a world of addiction and depravity. The protagonists, Bill and Mary, start smoking weed at a party and quickly succumb to the drug's sinister effects. They become forgetful, paranoid, and hyper-sexual, leading them down a path of crime and mental illness.
But while the original film is alarmist and offensive, the RiffTrax version is anything but. The talented trio offers their hilarious take on the film, turning it into a farce that will have viewers laughing out loud. Their quips, one-liners, and clever jabs at the film's expense make the movie a joy to watch, even for those who are not familiar with the original propaganda piece.
What makes RiffTrax Features: Reefer Madness so enjoyable is its irreverent, anything-goes attitude. The hosts have no qualms about making fun of anything, from the film's outdated hairstyles to its ridiculous plot twists. They are masters of deadpan commentary and using their comedic timing to maximum effect.
One of the highlights of the film is the trio's mocking of the film's use of science to justify its anti-marijuana message. The original Reefer Madness relied heavily on dubious scientific claims about the drug's effects, and the RiffTrax team has a field day with them. The hosts poke fun at the film's attempts to pass itself off as a serious scientific study, deflating its pretensions with their witty commentary.
In addition to their hilarious takes on the film's content, the RiffTrax team also introduces some clever meta-humor. They comment on the film itself, pointing out continuity errors, awkward cuts, and bizarre dialogue choices. They even mock the audience for choosing to watch such a ridiculous film, but in the best way possible - by making them laugh.
Overall, RiffTrax Features: Reefer Madness is a must-watch for fans of classic comedies, satire, or cannabis culture. The RiffTrax team's irreverent and hilarious take on the original propaganda piece turns it into a tongue-in-cheek farce that is as entertaining as it is funny. With its sharp wit, clever jokes, and masterful comedic timing, this movie will have viewers laughing until their sides hurt.