Educational Media Reviews Online

Though it's not traded on Wall Street, this documentary demonstrates that marijuana is a booming cash crop that pours billions of dollars into the cash-strapped California and U.S. economies. Viewers are taken inside California's "Emerald Triangle,” the pot capital of the U.S. , and interviews reveal the personal stories of both legal and criminal growers, buyers, and retailers, who are otherwise law-abiding citizens. In Mendocino County alone, the underground marijuana industry may account for two thirds of the local economy. The visit to Oakland’s Blue Sky Café is well-done and further shows the legal ambiguities. From seasoned growers to law enforcement officials to frustrated residents, the film reports on all sides of the ever-flourishing pot industry, including the increasingly violent aspects.

Editing of the interviews and scenes in the café and elsewhere is creative and effective. Video techniques and effects are excellent, well-planned and executed. The total effect of the documentary is interesting and clear, if not a bit discouraging. This DVD is suitable for high school and college students as well as adults, and libraries of all types will want to provide for interested viewers.