Table of Contents
Released on August 6, 2008, Pineapple Express is an American stoner action-comedy film that blends humor with thrilling action sequences. Directed by David Gordon Green, the movie features a talented cast led by Seth Rogen and James Franco. The film has garnered a cult following over the years, thanks to its unique storyline and memorable performances.
Plot Summary
The story follows Dale Denton (Seth Rogen), a process server with a penchant for marijuana, and his laid-back dealer, Saul Silver (James Franco). Their routine lives take a chaotic turn when Dale inadvertently witnesses a murder committed by a dangerous drug lord and a corrupt police officer. In his panic, Dale leaves behind a rare strain of marijuana called “Pineapple Express,” which can be traced back to Saul. This discovery forces the duo to go on the run, leading to a series of misadventures filled with danger and hilarity.
What’s Good?
One of the standout aspects of Pineapple Express is the chemistry between the lead actors. Seth Rogen and James Franco deliver performances that are both humorous and endearing, bringing their characters’ camaraderie to life. Franco’s portrayal of the easygoing Saul earned him a Golden Globe nomination, highlighting his ability to balance comedy with depth.
Director David Gordon Green successfully merges action and comedy, creating a film that keeps audiences engaged from start to finish. The action sequences are well-executed, providing adrenaline-pumping moments that complement the comedic elements.
The screenplay, penned by Rogen and Evan Goldberg, is filled with witty dialogue and memorable one-liners. Their writing captures the essence of stoner culture while weaving in a compelling narrative that explores themes of friendship and loyalty.
Graeme Revell’s musical score enhances the film’s atmosphere, blending seamlessly with the on-screen events. The cinematography by Tim Orr captures both the mundane and the chaotic aspects of the protagonists’ journey, adding a visual depth to the storytelling.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Pineapple Express excels in its character development and the dynamic between Dale and Saul. Their evolving friendship provides a heartfelt core amidst the chaos, making their journey relatable and engaging.
However, some viewers might find the film’s tonal shifts—from slapstick comedy to intense action—a bit jarring. While these transitions add to the unpredictability, they may not appeal to everyone. Additionally, the humor, heavily rooted in stoner culture, might not resonate with all audiences.
Target Audience
This film is tailored for adult audiences who appreciate a blend of comedy and action. Fans of stoner comedies and buddy films will find Pineapple Express particularly enjoyable. Due to its R-rated content, including drug use and violence, it’s not suitable for younger viewers.
Box Office Details
Pineapple Express was produced on a budget of $27 million. Upon its release, the film performed well commercially, grossing approximately $101.6 million worldwide. In the United States and Canada, it earned about $87.3 million, while international markets contributed around $14.3 million.
Below is a table summarizing the film’s box office performance during its initial release:
| Release Date | Region | Opening Gross | Total Gross |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 6, 2008 | United States | $23.2 million | $87.3 million |
| Sep 12, 2008 | United Kingdom | £1.4 million | £3.6 million |
| Oct 23, 2008 | Germany | €241,362 | €378,705 |
| Oct 10, 2008 | Poland | zł111,437 | zł333,720 |
| Nov 14, 2008 | Sweden | kr61,050 | kr136,117 |
Note: Detailed day-wise earnings for the first five days in India and overseas are not readily available.
Recommendation
Pineapple Express offers a unique blend of humor and action, driven by strong performances and a compelling storyline. It’s a must-watch for those who enjoy buddy comedies with an adventurous twist.
Genres:
Action, Comedy, Crime
Rating:
6.635/10
Cast:
| Actor | Character |
|---|---|
| Seth Rogen | Dale Denton |
| James Franco | Saul Silver |
| Gary Cole | Ted |
| Danny McBride | Red |
| Rosie Perez | Carol |
| Kevin Corrigan | Budlofsky |
| Craig Robinson | Matheson |
| Amber Heard | Angie Anderson |
| Ed Begley Jr. | Robert |
| Nora Dunn | Shannon |
| Bobby Lee | Bobby |
| James Remar | General Bratt |
| Joe Lo Truglio | Mr. Edwards |
| Art Napiontek | Clark |
| Cleo King | Police Liaison Officer |
| Bill Hader | Private Miller |
| Jonathan Spencer | Scientist |
| Dana Lee | Cheung |
| Ken Jeong | Ken |
| David C. Cook | Chris Gebert |
| Howard S. Lefstein | Mark |
| Connie Sawyer | Faye Belogus |
| David McDivitt | Cop with Mole |
| Mae LaBorde | Mrs. Mendelson |
| Kendall Carly Browne | Old Woman |
| George Lew | Old Man |
| John Robert Tramutola | Walt |
| Adam Crosby | Ack |
| Andrew Heald | Blake |
| Jeannetta Arnette | Sandra Danby |
| Carlos Aleman | Guy in Car |
| Omar Leyva | Guy in Car #2 |
| Sam Carson | Xerox Secretary |
| Jack Kehler | Walter – Accountant |
| Robert Longstreet | Dr. Terrence |
| Peter Gray Lewis | Thug #1 – Peter |
| Steve Bannos | Thug #2 – Jared |
| Eddie Rouse | Thug #5 – Lance |
| Mark Whigham | Thug #3 |
| Brian Scannell | Thug |
| Troy Gentile | Troy (uncredited) |
| Jourdan Lee | Assassin (uncredited) |
How is Our Review?
Please let us know did you like our Pineapple Express movie review through the comment box, so that we get inspartion to create more content for our readers.
