Ursulina Tarpley

Written by Ursulina Tarpley

Modified & Updated: 18 May 2024

Jessica Corbett

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

49-facts-about-the-movie-up-in-smoke
Source: Amazon.com

Get ready to take a wild ride with “Up in Smoke,” a true classic in the realm of stoner comedies. Released in 1978, this cult film stars Cheech Marin and Tommy Chong, two iconic figures in the world of counterculture humor. The movie follows the misadventures of Pedro and Man, two hapless stoners who unwittingly find themselves caught up in a series of hilarious and absurd situations.

In this article, we’ll delve into 49 fascinating facts about “Up in Smoke” that will take you behind the scenes and give you a deeper appreciation for this beloved film. From its initial challenges during production to the lasting impact it has had on the comedy genre, you’ll discover interesting tidbits about the making of the movie, its cast and crew, and the cultural significance it holds for fans all around the world.

Key Takeaways:

  • “Up in Smoke” is a classic stoner comedy from 1978, featuring Cheech and Chong, and it became a huge hit, influencing generations of comedians and sparking a resurgence of interest in stoner culture.
  • The movie broke barriers with its unapologetic depiction of drug use, and its humor and cultural relevance have stood the test of time, making it a timeless favorite for fans of all ages.
Table of Contents

Up in Smoke was released in 1978.

The cult classic stoner comedy, Up in Smoke, hit theaters in 1978 and became an instant hit.

It was directed by Lou Adler.

Lou Adler, a famous music producer, made his directorial debut with Up in Smoke.

The movie stars Cheech Marin and Tommy Chong.

Cheech Marin and Tommy Chong, known as the dynamic comedy duo Cheech and Chong, play the lead roles in the film.

Up in Smoke was the first film featuring Cheech and Chong’s iconic characters.

The characters of Pedro de Pacas (played by Cheech Marin) and Anthony “Man” Stoner (played by Tommy Chong) were introduced to audiences for the first time in this movie.

The film follows the misadventures of two stoners.

Up in Smoke tells the hilarious story of two friends who accidentally smuggle a van made entirely of marijuana from Mexico to Los Angeles.

Up in Smoke became a massive box office success.

Despite initially receiving mixed reviews from critics, the movie grossed over $44 million at the box office and became a cult classic.

It became a cultural phenomenon among the counterculture movement.

Up in Smoke resonated strongly with the counterculture of the 1970s and became a symbol of the era.

The movie is known for its memorable quotes.

Lines like “Dave’s not here, man!” and “Hey, man, I got a joint here!” have become iconic quotes from the film.

Up in Smoke has a killer soundtrack.

The film features an impressive soundtrack that includes songs like “Low Rider” by War and “Rock Fight” by Alice Bowie.

It is considered one of the funniest stoner comedies of all time.

Up in Smoke set the bar high for stoner comedies and remains a fan favorite in the genre.

The movie tackles themes of counterculture and rebellion.

Up in Smoke explores the societal norms and expectations of the time, challenging them with its irreverent humor.

It was the highest-grossing comedy of 1978.

With its unique brand of humor, Up in Smoke outperformed other comedies released in the same year.

The success of Up in Smoke led to more Cheech and Chong movies.

The popularity of the film spawned a series of sequels and spin-offs featuring the lovable stoner duo.

Up in Smoke was a low-budget production.

The film was made on a modest budget of only $2 million but went on to achieve great commercial success.

It was shot primarily in Los Angeles, California.

The movie takes place in and around Los Angeles, capturing the essence of the city in the 1970s.

Up in Smoke was originally intended to be a concert film.

The initial concept for the movie was to document Cheech and Chong’s live performances but evolved into a feature film.

The film features cameo appearances by famous musicians.

Up in Smoke includes appearances by musicians such as Strother Martin, Edie Adams, and Zane Buzby.

It has become a cultural reference point.

References to Up in Smoke can be found in various forms of media, including television, music, and other films.

The movie has a dedicated fan base.

Even after more than four decades, Up in Smoke continues to attract new fans who appreciate its unique brand of humor.

Up in Smoke has influenced the stoner comedy genre.

The film’s success paved the way for other stoner comedies, and its impact can still be seen in contemporary movies.

Cheech and Chong wrote much of the script.

The comedic duo co-wrote the screenplay for Up in Smoke, infusing it with their own style and humor.

It broke barriers with its unapologetic depiction of drug use.

Up in Smoke pushed boundaries with its portrayal of marijuana use, challenging societal norms at the time.

The film was initially given an X rating.

Due to its explicit drug content, Up in Smoke received an X rating, which was later changed to an R rating.

Up in Smoke was a critical and commercial success in Canada.

The film was especially popular in the Canadian market and received positive reviews from Canadian critics.

It has achieved cult status.

Up in Smoke has gained a devoted following over the years and is considered a cult classic.

The movie’s poster is iconic.

The distinctive poster for Up in Smoke, featuring Cheech and Chong emerging from a cloud of smoke, has become instantly recognizable.

Up in Smoke features a blend of slapstick and social commentary.

The film combines physical comedy with satirical elements, offering both laughs and insights into society.

It was groundbreaking for its time.

Up in Smoke pushed boundaries and challenged conventional filmmaking, making it a groundbreaking film in many ways.

The film was a hit with college students.

Up in Smoke resonated particularly well with college-aged audiences, becoming a popular choice for late-night screenings on campuses.

Up in Smoke has memorable visual gags.

The movie is full of visual humor, from the famous giant joint to the various mishaps encountered by the characters.

Cheech and Chong’s chemistry is undeniable.

The comedic chemistry between Cheech Marin and Tommy Chong adds to the film’s charm and comedic timing.

It remains one of the most quotable movies in the stoner comedy genre.

Up in Smoke’s witty dialogue and memorable one-liners have made it a quotable favorite among fans.

The film’s soundtrack went platinum.

The soundtrack album for Up in Smoke achieved platinum status, further solidifying its place in pop culture.

Up in Smoke has stood the test of time.

Despite being released over four decades ago, the movie’s humor and cultural relevance have not diminished.

It has influenced generations of comedians.

Many comedians cite Up in Smoke as an inspiration and acknowledge its impact on their own comedic style.

The movie sparked a resurgence of interest in stoner culture.

Up in Smoke helped bring stoner culture into the mainstream and sparked a renewed curiosity about cannabis-related topics.

The film’s success propelled Cheech and Chong to superstardom.

Following the release of Up in Smoke, Cheech and Chong became iconic figures in the comedy world.

Up in Smoke attracted a diverse fan base.

The movie drew audiences from all walks of life, further illustrating its broad appeal.

It broke records at the time of its release.

Up in Smoke set box office records for the highest-grossing comedy opening weekend at the time.

The movie’s humor is timeless.

The comedic elements of Up in Smoke have transcended generations, continuing to entertain audiences today.

Up in Smoke has become a classic example of 1970s cinema.

The film embodies the spirit and style of filmmaking in the 1970s, capturing the essence of the era.

It opened doors for other independent comedy films.

Up in Smoke’s success paved the way for other independent comedy films to find mainstream recognition.

The film has a loyal following in the cannabis community.

Up in Smoke remains highly regarded within the cannabis community, with its portrayal of marijuana culture resonating with enthusiasts.

It features memorable supporting characters.

From Chong’s cousin Strawberry to Sergeant Stedenko, Up in Smoke’s supporting cast adds depth and humor to the story.

The movie has been digitally remastered.

In recent years, Up in Smoke has undergone a digital remastering process to enhance the viewing experience for new and existing fans.

It has inspired countless Halloween costumes.

Up in Smoke’s memorable characters have become popular choices for Halloween costumes and theme parties.

The film’s success led to a successful comedy album.

Cheech and Chong released a comedy album titled “Up in Smoke” to accompany the film’s release, further capitalizing on its popularity.

Up in Smoke was a cultural touchstone for the late 1970s.

The film captured the spirit of the era and became a symbol of the changing times.

It continues to be embraced by new generations.

Up in Smoke’s enduring popularity proves that its comedic genius transcends generations, ensuring its place in movie history.

Conclusion

In conclusion, “Up in Smoke” is a cult classic that has left a lasting impact on the comedy film genre. With its memorable characters, hilarious plot, and iconic moments, this movie continues to entertain audiences to this day. From the dynamic duo of Cheech and Chong to the outrageous stoner humor, “Up in Smoke” has become a beloved favorite for fans of all generations. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the film, watching “Up in Smoke” is sure to provide a laughter-filled experience that you won’t soon forget.

FAQs

Q: Who are the main characters in “Up in Smoke”?

A: The main characters in “Up in Smoke” are Cheech Marin and Tommy Chong, who star as Pedro De Pacas and Anthony ‘Man’ Stoner, respectively.

Q: When was “Up in Smoke” released?

A: “Up in Smoke” was released on September 15, 1978.

Q: What is the plot of “Up in Smoke”?

A: The movie follows the misadventures of Pedro and Man, two stoners who unwittingly get mixed up in a smuggling operation while searching for the perfect “Gigantic Colombian Joint.

Q: Is “Up in Smoke” suitable for all audiences?

A: “Up in Smoke” is rated R for its adult language, drug use, and sexual content. It is recommended for mature audiences.

Q: Who directed “Up in Smoke”?

A: Lou Adler directed “Up in Smoke.

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