A theatrical high.

Rating: 8/10 (18 January 2012)

In the opening lines of the movie, it is said that 'weed makes bad movies better', or something to that effect. While 'Pineapple Express' is far from a bad movie, it's interesting to ponder this line and then consider the film sans any drug references whatsoever; without the weed, there would be little else left.
Anyone familiar with recreational drug use, drug culture or drugs in general will appreciate 'Pineapple Express'. If you've never been near a doobie in your life, then you may find yourself scratching your head. Not because the plot is overly complex, but simply due to the fact that drugs are the closest we get to a prevalent theme; at its core the plot is a case of wrong place, wrong time as the central character unwittingly witnesses a drug tycoon commit murder.
Rogen performs to a high standard in a role that perhaps is his best suited yet; his character, stoner Dale Denton, reflects Rogen's most endearing traits perfectly as opposed to some of the more shoehorned personaes he's adopted in recent years. While many critics may suggest that Franco's mind-numbingly funny turn as drug dealer Saul is the standout (and it is most definitely deserving of the accolade), Rogen's seemingly effortless portrayal just manages to steals the show.
The success of 'Pineapple Express' definitely lies in its 'Superbad' style dialogue, a kind of back-and-forth banter that could potentially occur spontaneously, but is more clearly the sign of clever writing and a trained sense of humour. This is fast becoming a trademark of the Judd Apatow machine. Even when the film is not revelling in its drugs esoteric, the screenplay remains ever sharp; a sudden transition from comedy to action fails to halt its momentum, despite the unexpected contrast. It does, however, maintain the hilarity by spoofing blockbuster convention. For all the genres it touches on - from comedy to action to crime thriller to buddy movie - 'Pineapple Express' has such confidence in its nature that no lack of agenda can't prevent it from delivering pure entertainment.
8/10