Cannabis Series: A Journey Through Global Marijuana Culture
From the early days of web-based exploration to full-scale television seasons on Viceland, this series provides a raw and detailed look at the complex world of cannabis. The show navigates the intersection of law, medicine, and social justice, following host Krishna as he explores how different cultures and individuals interact with the plant.
The series began as a web series in 2013, focusing on the emerging trends of the time, such as Butane Hash Oil (BHO)—a potent cannabis concentrate also known as shatter, dabs, or wax—and the genetic purity of rare strains in Colombia.
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Key Facts
- Broad Scope: The series covers global locations including the USA, Colombia, Uruguay, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the UK.
- Medical Focus: Significant attention is given to the use of cannabis for leukemia, PTSD, and autism.
- Legal Conflict: The show highlights the tension between state-level legalization and federal prohibition.
- Social Justice: Episodes examine the impact of entrapment, long-term imprisonment for minor offenses, and the struggles of black market growers transitioning to legal markets.
Evolution of the Series
The Web Series Era (2013–2014)
The initial episodes set the stage by exploring the extremes of cannabis use and legality. Highlights include a visit to the 2013 Cannabis Cup in Denver and an interview with the President of Uruguay, José Mujica, regarding his vision for a regulated market where households could grow up to six plants.
Season 1: Expanding the Narrative (2016)
As the series transitioned to a full season, it dove deeper into the human element. It explored the Emerald Triangle in California, where small-scale growers face pressure from large corporations, and traveled to the Democratic Republic of Congo to document the Mbuti pygmies and female cannabis dealers in rebel territories.
Season 2: Legal and Social Friction (2016)
Airing on Viceland, Season 2 focused heavily on the contradictions of prohibition. Episodes examined the fear of parents losing children to Child Protective Services in prohibition states and the use of cannabis by NFL players to manage pain and potentially protect against brain injuries.
Season 3: Specialized Topics (2017)
The final season continued to push boundaries, tackling specific and controversial topics such as deportation related to drug charges, the use of herb for autism, and the complexities of stoned driving.
Episode Summary Table
| Phase | Primary Focus | Notable Locations | Key Themes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Web Series | Foundational Trends | USA, Colombia, Uruguay | BHO, Genetic Purity, Regulation |
| Season 1 | Global & Medical Use | California, Congo, Amsterdam | Corporate Farming, PTSD, Medical Access |
| Season 2 | Societal Conflict | Kansas, UK, Michigan | Parenting, Professional Sports, Law Enforcement |
| Season 3 | Niche Legalities | Various | Autism, Deportation, Pregnancy |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is BHO as mentioned in the series?
BHO stands for Butane Hash Oil. It is a concentrated form of cannabis often referred to as shatter, dabs, or wax, which is extracted using butane.
How does the series portray the legal situation in Uruguay?
The series features an interview with President José Mujica, discussing Uruguay's transition to a legally regulated marijuana market with a goal of allowing six cannabis plants per household.
What social issues are highlighted regarding the US legal system?
The series explores several injustices, including the case of Bernard Noble, who received a 13-year sentence in Louisiana for two joints, and the entrapment of a student with Asperger syndrome.
Does the series cover the use of cannabis for animals or specific medical conditions?
While it focuses primarily on humans, it extensively covers medical use for leukemia in children, PTSD in veterans, and the potential benefits for those with autism.
What is the Emerald Triangle?
The Emerald Triangle is one of the world's largest cannabis-producing regions located in California, where the series highlights the struggle of small-budget growers against large corporations.