How To Watch How High

Plot Synopsis

The movie “How High” is a hilarious stoner comedy that follows the misadventures of two high school friends, Silas (Method Man) and Jamal (Redman), who discover a unique way to get into Harvard University. Silas and Jamal are laid-back and carefree, often found smoking weed and enjoying their carefree lifestyle. However, when their friend Ivory (Chuck Deezy) accidentally dies after jumping out of a window while high, they are devastated. In an attempt to honor his memory, Silas uses some of Ivory’s ashes as fertilizer for a new strain of marijuana. Surprisingly, the weed grows rapidly and produces an extraordinary effect when smoked – it allows them to communicate with the ghost of Ivory.

With the ability to converse with Ivory’s ghost, Silas and Jamal quickly realize that he possesses vast knowledge and a remarkable aptitude for helping them ace their college entrance exams. Armed with their newfound supernatural advantage, the duo achieve exceptionally high scores on the exams and are accepted into Harvard. Once enrolled, Silas and Jamal must navigate the hallowed halls of academia, encountering a series of comical mishaps and fish-out-of-water situations. Their unorthodox methods often clash with the conventional and stuffy world of Harvard, leading to a clash of cultures and a multitude of laugh-out-loud moments.

As their popularity grows, Silas and Jamal become charismatic figures on campus, attracting the attention of both students and faculty. They use their unique perspectives and laid-back demeanor to challenge the rigid status quo of the university, causing a whirlwind of controversy and riotous chaos. Along the way, they form unexpected friendships, including a budding romance with Lauren (Essence Atkins), a dedicated and ambitious student who becomes enamored with their unconventionality.

However, Silas and Jamal’s extraordinary journey is not without obstacles. They encounter Russell (Fred Willard), a snooty and uptight professor who aims to expose them and ruin their chances of success. Silas and Jamal must find a way to outsmart Russell while staying true to themselves and their unique approach to education.

In this witty and irreverent comedy, “How High” explores themes of friendship, self-discovery, and the importance of staying true to oneself. With its offbeat humor, larger-than-life characters, and uproarious situations, this film will leave audiences rolling with laughter from start to finish.

Main Cast and Characters

“How High” features a talented ensemble cast who bring the characters to life with their comedic timing and infectious energy. Here are the main cast members and the characters they portray:

Method Man as Silas P. Silas: Method Man, a renowned rapper and actor, takes on the role of Silas, one-half of the dynamic duo. Silas is a laid-back and charming stoner who discovers a unique way to communicate with the ghost of his deceased friend, Ivory.
Redman as Jamal King: Redman, another accomplished rapper, stars as Jamal, Silas’ best friend and partner in crime. Jamal is also a marijuana enthusiast and shares Silas’ carefree attitude, but he shows surprising determination when it comes to achieving their goals.
Obba Babatundé as Dean Cain: Obba Babatundé delivers a memorable performance as Dean Cain, the strict and traditional dean of Harvard University. Dean Cain initially disapproves of Silas and Jamal’s unorthodox methods, leading to many amusing clashes between them.
Essence Atkins as Lauren: Essence Atkins plays Lauren, a dedicated and ambitious student at Harvard. She becomes enamored with Silas and Jamal’s unconventional approach to education and becomes entangled in their comedic journey.
Hector Elizondo as Bill the Crew Coach: Hector Elizondo takes on the role of Bill, the crew coach at Harvard. He becomes an unlikely ally to Silas and Jamal, providing guidance and support in their quest to prove their worth to the university.

The chemistry among the main cast is palpable, and their comedic performances bring the characters to life in a way that resonates with audiences. Each actor infuses their unique personality into their role, resulting in a memorable and hilarious on-screen dynamic that drives the film forward.

Similar Movies

If you enjoyed the humor and antics of “How High,” then you might also enjoy these other films that share a similar comedic style and appeal:

“Half Baked” (1998): Starring Dave Chappelle and Jim Breuer, this stoner comedy follows the adventure of four friends who must sell marijuana to free their incarcerated buddy. It combines hilarious scenarios with memorable characters and plenty of laughs.
“Pineapple Express” (2008): This action-comedy stars Seth Rogen and James Franco as a stoner and his dealer who find themselves on the run from a dangerous drug lord. It blends comedy, action, and a healthy dose of weed-infused humor.
“Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle” (2004): This buddy comedy follows the journey of two friends, Harold and Kumar, as they embark on a quest for the ultimate fast-food fix. Along the way, they encounter a series of outrageous and comedic situations.
“Super Troopers” (2001): This cult classic comedy follows a group of state troopers who engage in outlandish pranks and shenanigans while trying to outwit a rival police department. It’s filled with hilarious dialogue, memorable characters, and plenty of comedic chaos.

These films share a similar irreverent and offbeat comedic style that appeals to those who appreciate stoner humor and outrageous situations. Whether it’s the wacky adventures, witty dialogue, or zany characters, each of these movies promises a dose of laughter and entertainment for fans of “How High.”

Cultural References

“How High” incorporates various cultural references throughout the film, adding an extra layer of humor and familiarity for audiences. Here are a few notable cultural references that can be found in the movie:

Pop Culture Parodies: “How High” is known for its clever parody of popular culture. From referencing iconic movies to spoofing famous celebrities, the film includes playful nods that fans can enjoy. Look out for references to classic films like “Good Will Hunting” and “Ghostbusters,” as well as satirical takes on famous personalities such as Oprah Winfrey and Bill Clinton.
Hip-Hop Influences: With Method Man and Redman at the helm, “How High” pays homage to hip-hop culture. The film incorporates elements of rap music, showcasing the talents of these iconic artists. From their witty rhymes to their unique style, Silas and Jamal embody the spirit of hip-hop throughout the movie.
College Life: One of the main settings of the film is Harvard University. “How High” explores the college experience, poking fun at the traditional academic environment. The film highlights the clash between the laid-back, countercultural attitudes of Silas and Jamal and the rigid expectations of the Ivy League institution, providing a humorous take on university life.
Weed Culture: As a stoner comedy, “How High” embraces weed culture and references it throughout the film. From the characters’ frequent marijuana use to the creative effects of smoking the magical strain of weed, the movie acknowledges and celebrates the cannabis lifestyle in a comedic and lighthearted way.

The inclusion of these cultural references adds depth and relatability to the film, creating moments of recognition and laughter for viewers. Whether you’re a fan of hip-hop, pop culture, college life, or simply enjoy the occasional marijuana reference, “How High” offers something for everyone in its playful embrace of cultural influences.

Soundtrack

The soundtrack of “How High” features an eclectic mix of hip-hop and R&B tracks that perfectly complement the film’s energetic and comedic vibe. The music enhances the overall viewing experience and contributes to the iconic moments that define the movie. Here are a few notable tracks from the “How High” soundtrack:

“Part II” by Method Man & Redman: This infectious collaboration between the film’s stars, Method Man and Redman, serves as the theme song for “How High.” The track encapsulates the energy and camaraderie between the two characters and sets the tone for the wild adventures to come.
“Cisco Kid” by Method Man, Redman, and Cypress Hill: This high-energy collaboration brings together three renowned hip-hop acts – Method Man, Redman, and Cypress Hill – for a memorable track that blends the distinct styles of each artist. It creates a catchy and energetic atmosphere that embodies the spirit of the film.
“Tear It Off” by Method Man: Method Man’s solo track from the soundtrack showcases his lyrical prowess and unique flow. The song’s gritty beats and aggressive delivery perfectly capture the rebellious and confident nature of his character, Silas.
“How to Roll a Blunt” by Redman: As a stoner comedy, it’s only fitting that the soundtrack includes a track from Redman dedicated to the art of rolling a blunt. With its catchy rhythm and humorous lyrics, the song adds an extra layer of humor and authenticity to the film’s marijuana-centric theme.

These songs, along with others featured on the “How High” soundtrack, amplify the film’s energy, humor, and hip-hop influences. The soundtrack serves as an integral part of the viewing experience, immersing audiences in the world of Silas and Jamal as they navigate Harvard and embrace their carefree, weed-loving lifestyles.

Memorable Quotes

“How High” is filled with witty and hilarious lines that have become fan favorites. These memorable quotes capture the comedic essence of the film and have stood the test of time. Here are some of the most memorable quotes from “How High”:

“I got mind control over DeBo. He be like ‘Shut the fuck up.’ I be quiet. But when he leave, I be talking again.” – Silas
“Yo man, did you see that? That shit just dropped out the sky like ‘bam,’ like ‘bam.'” – Jamal
“I am McLovin’ these pancakes!” – Silas
“I just smoked the ashes of my dead friend. That’s what’s wrong with me.” – Silas
“I made love to you on that Escalade, and it was good.” – Jamal
“What are we doing tonight, Brain?” – Ivory’s Ghost. “The same thing we do every night, Pinky… Try to take over the world!” – Silas
“I’m hitting Harvard’s books harder than Harvard’s hitting me.” – Jamal
“Damn, I gotta go back to college. Anything to keep from getting a job.” – Silas
“I think they’re trying to kill me, fresh whites with no prints.” – Jamie Kennedy’s character
“It’s time for me to wash my ass, smoking makes me wanna do things.” – Silas

These quotes showcase the hilarious dialogue, witty one-liners, and unique perspectives of the characters in “How High.” They have become iconic lines that fans love to quote and share, adding to the film’s enduring comedic legacy.

Behind the Scenes

Behind the scenes of “How High,” there were numerous interesting and entertaining aspects that contributed to the film’s success and cult following. Here are a few behind-the-scenes tidbits that provide a glimpse into the making of this hilarious stoner comedy:

Method Man and Redman’s Chemistry: Method Man and Redman, both accomplished rappers and actors, brought their real-life friendship and camaraderie to their on-screen characters. Their natural chemistry and improvisational skills added an authentic and dynamic dynamic to the film, making their characters Silas and Jamal relatable and endearing.
The Magical Weed: One significant element of the plot is the magical strain of weed that allows Silas and Jamal to communicate with Ivory’s ghost. The concept of the supernatural effects of smoking this special weed was a unique and humorous twist on the stoner comedy genre, creating memorable and comedic moments throughout the film.
Harvard University as a Setting: Filming “How High” on location at Harvard University added an extra layer of authenticity to the movie. The contrasting juxtaposition of the Ivy League institution and the characters’ laid-back and unconventional attitudes created a wealth of comedic opportunities and fish-out-of-water situations for Silas and Jamal.
Director Jesse Dylan’s Vision: Director Jesse Dylan, known for his work on music videos and films, brought his distinct visual style to “How High.” Dylan’s creative vision, combined with the colorful and lively cinematography, enhanced the comedic elements of the film and contributed to its energetic and vibrant atmosphere.
The Importance of Soundtrack: The music played a significant role in the film’s overall appeal. The soundtrack featured a mix of hip-hop and R&B tracks, including collaborations between Method Man, Redman, and other renowned artists. The carefully curated soundtrack complemented the on-screen action, amplifying the humor and adding an extra layer of enjoyment for the audience.

These behind-the-scenes insights shed light on the collaborative efforts, creative choices, and unique elements that contributed to the success and enduring popularity of “How High.” The combination of talented performers, a unique concept, and a lively visual aesthetic resulted in a memorable stoner comedy that continues to entertain audiences to this day.

Reception and Legacy

Upon its release, “How High” received mixed reviews from critics but quickly gained a devoted cult following. The film’s unique blend of stoner humor, memorable characters, and playful irreverence appealed to audiences looking for a lighthearted and entertaining comedy. While some critics dismissed it as a mindless stoner flick, fans embraced its wit, quotable dialogue, and the infectious chemistry between Method Man and Redman.

Over the years, “How High” has achieved a lasting legacy as a beloved stoner comedy. It remains a cult favorite and is often held up as a classic example of the genre. Fans appreciate its unapologetic celebration of cannabis culture and its light-hearted take on college life and the pursuit of higher education.

The comedic performances of Method Man and Redman are often praised, with their natural charisma and friendship shining through on screen. Their dynamic and infectious energy have made Silas and Jamal iconic characters in the realm of stoner comedies.

The film’s legacy extends beyond its initial release, as it continues to inspire and entertain new generations of fans. Its quotes, such as “I got mind control over DeBo,” have become part of pop culture vernacular, while its memorable scenes and comedic moments are still celebrated and referenced in discussions and on social media platforms.

Furthermore, “How High” showcased the talents of Method Man and Redman as actors, propelling their careers in both the music and film industries. It solidified their status as entertainment icons and paved the way for other hip-hop artists to crossover into acting.

Although “How High” may not have achieved mainstream blockbuster success, its lasting impact in the realm of stoner comedies and its dedicated fanbase have solidified its place in film history. It continues to be remembered as a fun and entertaining movie that delivers laughs and embraces a carefree, light-hearted spirit.