You don't have to be high to enjoy this hilarious thrill ride

Rating: 9/10 (13 June 2009)

The thing about Pineapple Express and its comparison with other action/comedies is that it's similar in its own unique way. You've got a simple premise, two guys on the run, consistent laughs and decent action sequences along the way. But what sets Pineapple Express apart is its impact of marijuana in the overall plot. Not only is weed what leads to the main conflict, but it also has an impact on the supposed friendship between the two main characters and has a surprising effect in the climax of the film. Good laughs, timely action and a hilarious performance from James Franco all define Pineapple Express as perhaps one of the most praiseworthy stoner flicks in years.
With a premise as simple as a stoner comedy needs, Pineapple Express is enjoyable to anyone. A lazy slacker stoner named Dale (Seth Rogen) witnesses a murder and is forced on the run along with his dealer (James Franco) after dropping a rare strand of marijuana called Pineapple Express, which can easily be traced back to both of them. While on the run, they meet an old friend (Danny McBride), run from crazy cop (Rosie Perez) and a drug lord (Gary Cole), and even discover their friendship along the way. Clearly marijuana has a deep impact on the story and climax, and along with great laughs and hilarious performances, Pineapple Express delivers at every level.
Despite Seth Rogen's notable performance, Danny McBride's breakthrough and Gary Cole's nice evil turn, James Franco clearly steals the scenes as Rogen's hippie pot dealer Saul Silver. With hilarious dialogue and not much awareness of anything, it is great to see a talented actor such as himself take such a great turn into comedy. Also, the movie properly bridges comedy and action by the climax toward the end, and that that point, one would think that nothing could be more fun than to see two stoners fending for their lives in such a crazy, smoke-filled and fast-paced situation. Overall, Pineapple Express is a fun-filled ride, and anyone looking for laughs--even those who aren't high out of their mind--won't go wrong with the bong-load of fun called Pineapple Express.