The long-standing national prohibition of marijuana has prohibited cannabis research in the United States for more than 80 years. The many subjects of Weed The People provide substantial anecdotal, medical, political, historic, and scientific proof that cannabinoids have some effect on the recovery and comfort of cancer patients.
The documentary follows children with late-stage cancer and discusses the use of cannabis oil for pain, nausea, and limiting tumor growth through the experiences of the patients and their families. This footage is interspersed with experts reporting information about the prohibition of marijuana and scientific data gathered in places such as Israel supporting the potential health benefits of cannabinoids.
The racist and xenophobic nature of marijuana’s original prohibition, the long history of medical use before the 1920s, and other historic policy positions are offered as proof of the insanity of continued prohibition and policing. Several noted chemists, biologists, and doctors are given screen time as well and discuss their own work in the field.
The film is shot in the traditional style with both interviews and candid footage. The subject matter being children with cancer makes this an emotionally charged film. There’s no way to come out of this one without shedding some tears. It’s a veritable roller coaster of highs and lows. Many of the children improve, but there are also losses and many struggles which seem too much for anyone to bear. The varied experience, expertise, and background of the adult subjects are very interesting. From lawyers to engineers to mothers, each has their own legitimate experience which provides evidence that there should be a study of the potential benefits of cannabinoids in medicine.
The murky water in which they stand is a large part of the problem. Too many inferior products, a lack of quality control, and a focus on recreational production all pose serious economic, medical, and legal risks to the children and their families. In the long run, this film seeks an end to prohibition and firmly states that no one, no child especially, should go without medicine which could ease their suffering and potentially cure their illness because of poor policy decisions made almost a century ago. As an excellent resource for many types of information about medical marijuana, Weed The People is highly recommended. Aud: C, P.
Included in our list of Best Documentaries 2021.
