How High

If you're in the mood for a stoner comedy that doesn't take itself too seriously, 'How High' might hit the right notes. However, it’s also a mixed bag, with plenty of stumbles along the way.

Two Friends, One Magical High

In 'How High,' we follow Jamal (Redman) and Silas (Method Man), two slacker friends who miraculously ace their college entrance exams after smoking some mystical weed. They land spots at Harvard, where they quickly discover that the Ivy League experience is a far cry from their laid-back lifestyle. However, their luck runs out when their magical supply depletes, forcing them to navigate campus life without their magical crutch. The film juggles college antics, friendship dynamics, and the challenges of fitting into a rigorous academic environment, but it often falls into predictable territory.

Chemistry That Shines

The chemistry between Redman and Method Man is arguably the highlight of the film. Their performances bring some fun and charm to an otherwise clichéd script. However, supporting characters like Obba Babatundé as Dean Carl Cain and Mike Epps as Baby Powder feel underutilized, often reduced to one-dimensional caricatures. There are moments where the ensemble could have added depth, but instead, their contributions feel awkwardly shoehorned in. The lack of character development leaves you feeling detached at times, despite some good comedic moments.

Standard Direction, Lackluster Visuals

Jesse Dylan's direction is functional but lacks the creativity needed to elevate the material. The film relies heavily on standard comedy tropes, lacking innovative visual storytelling or a unique stylistic approach. Most scenes feel routine, with poorly executed cuts and pacing that drags in some areas. While it does capture the stoner vibe, the visuals don’t do much to enhance the humor. Instead, the film often feels like it’s going through the motions, rather than immersing the viewer in its world.

Laughter with Lulls

Watching 'How High' can be a bit of a rollercoaster; there are laughs, but also stretches where the pacing lags and the humor falls flat. Some moments aim for absurdity but land awkwardly, leading to a mix of chuckles and eye-rolls. The humor is very hit-or-miss, and if you're looking for deeper emotional engagement, you might find yourself zoning out during the more tedious scenes. While it has its fun moments, the overall experience can feel more like a chore than a joyride.