Watch Waiting to Inhale: Marijuana, Medicine and the Law

Waiting to Inhale is a documentary film that sheds light on the topic of marijuana, medicine and the laws that surround them. The film is directed by Jed Riffe and stars Jeffrey W. Jones. It was released in 2010 and since then, it has been widely acclaimed for its accurate representation of the complex issues that surround the use of marijuana for medical purposes.

The film explores the history of marijuana usage in the United States and the global efforts to make marijuana legal for medicinal purposes. It starts by looking at the criminalization of marijuana back in 1937, and traces its usage as a medicine throughout history. One of the central themes of the movie is the disparity between federal law and state law regarding the use of marijuana. While many states have legalized the use of marijuana for medicinal purposes, the plant is still classified as a Schedule 1 drug under federal law, which makes it illegal to possess, sell, or use.

The film also includes interviews with people who use marijuana for medicinal purposes, and those who grow, distribute, and provide patients with access to the drug. It presents a range of perspectives and describes the challenges that people face when trying to use marijuana for medicinal purposes. Through these stories, the film shows the human side of the debate and how the laws around marijuana are affecting real people.

Waiting to Inhale explores the science behind why marijuana is effective for treating certain ailments, and how it can be used as an alternative to other, more addictive and potentially harmful drugs. The film highlights the role of THC and other cannabinoids in treating various conditions, such as chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, post-traumatic stress disorder, and cancer.

One of the most illuminating parts of the movie is the exploration of the medical marijuana dispensaries in California, which is one of the few states that has legalized marijuana for medicinal use. The film takes the viewer inside the dispensaries and explains how they operate. It shows the safety measures that are in place to ensure that patients are getting pure and potent marijuana, and how doctors work with patients to identify the strains that will be most effective for their specific conditions.

Waiting to Inhale also explores the challenges that medical marijuana patients face when traveling across state lines. Since marijuana use is not legal in many parts of the United States, patients who need to travel out of state often have to leave their medication behind. This can be a serious issue for people with chronic conditions who need access to marijuana to manage their symptoms.

The film takes a balanced approach to the issue of marijuana use, and explores both the benefits and risks associated with it. It looks at the negative aspects of marijuana use, including the potential for addiction, long-term cognitive impairment, and the increased risk of mental health problems in some users. It also looks at the risks associated with illegal marijuana use, including the potential for criminal prosecution and imprisonment.

Overall, Waiting to Inhale is a thought-provoking and informative film that explores a complex and controversial topic. It provides a comprehensive look at the history, science, and legal issues surrounding marijuana use, and provides a voice for people who use the drug for medicinal purposes. The film is well-researched and presents a balanced view of the issue, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in the subject of medical marijuana.

Waiting to Inhale: Marijuana, Medicine and the Law is a documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 14 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.7.