Cast
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Dave Chappelle
as Thurgood Jenkins / Sir Smoke-a-Lot
Jim Breuer
as Brian
Harland Williams
as Kenny Davis
Guillermo Díaz
as Scarface
Rachel True
as Mary Jane Potman
Tommy Chong
as Squirrel Master
Clarence Williams III
as Samson Simpson
Laura Silverman
as Jan
R.D. Reid
as Scientist
Gregg Rogell
as Pothead
Kevin Brennan
as Pothead
Alice Poon
as Supply Clerk
Rick Demas
as Nasty Nate
David Bluestein
as Jerry Garcia
Kevin Duhaney
as Young Thurgood
Crew
Director
- Tamra Davis
Writer
- Dave Chappelle
- Neal Brennan
Producer
- Robert Simonds
Reviews
Andre Gonzales
Cant lie I still like to get high and watch this movie. Really there's no other way to watch it. The movie isn't funny when your sober. Drunk even it's funny.
May 24, 2023
Thematic Analysis
Half Baked represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Crime cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Tamra Davis brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1998, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Half Baked took approximately 6 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $8.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 82 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 111 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.
- The musical score contains over 53 unique compositions.
- The screenplay went through 5 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1998, when this film was released:
- The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
- Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Half Baked shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Reuben the Roller Roo, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Half Baked subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Romancing the Stone and EuroTrip explore similar territory, Half Baked stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: January 16, 1998
- Runtime: 1h 22m
- Budget: $8,000,000
- Revenue: $17,460,020
Where to Watch
