Main Cast: Don La Fontaine, John Lithgow, Billy Bob Thornton, Hank Azaria, Kelly Lynch, Ryan Phillippe, Jon Bon Jovi, John Lithgow, Jamie Lee Curtis, Ted Danson, Judge Reinhold
Release Year: 1998
Country: US
Run Time: 102 minutes
MPAA Rating: R
Plot
In this comedy thriller, set in northern California, inept but lovable pot farmers Jack Madsen (Billy Bob Thornton) and Carter (Hank Azaria) work for San Francisco entrepreneur Malcolm Stockman (John Lithgow), who arrives for a visit via copter. As soon as Malcolm steps out, the copter pilot shoots him and takes off, leaving the two aghast along with apprentice Harlan (Ryan Phillippe). Minus a boss, the naive trio deduces no paychecks are forthcoming, so they collect cannabis for a big payoff and head to the nearby town where they meet up with go-between Lucy (Kelly Lynch). However, their explanations of Malcolm's whereabouts and their sudden need to sell some of the crop arouse suspicions, while their lazy days on the dope farm have left them unprepared as businessmen seeking buyers for millions in contraband. They soon find themselves in a shadowy new world of greed, paranoia, and duplicity. ~ Bhob Stewart, All Movie Guide
The introduction to this article provides insufficient context for those unfamiliar with the subject. Please help improve the article with a good introductory style. (October 2009)
When their kingpin is murdered, bungling small-fry marijuana harvesters in Northern California try to keep the business running, negotiating the biggest sale ever and keeping his death a secret. But when silent partners, the Mafia, the police, and other meddlers crash the party, they begin to realize they're in over their heads.
The film was written in the 80's but the subject matter frightened film companies and it wasn't until the mid 90's following the legalization of medical marijuana in California that the film was given a green light.
The movie had short, limited theatrical run. It basically came and went unnoticed.
