Up in Smoke

| 1978

Directed by: Lou Adler, Tommy Chong

Main Plot

Up in Smoke follows the misadventures of two stoners, Cheech and Chong, who inadvertently become involved in a series of comedic escapades. The story begins when the duo, both aimless and carefree, decide to embark on a road trip to Los Angeles. Their journey takes a wild turn when they discover that their van is made entirely out of marijuana. As they navigate through various encounters with the law and other eccentric characters, Cheech and Chong's antics lead them into increasingly absurd situations. Their quest for fun and relaxation is constantly interrupted by misunderstandings and mishaps, showcasing the carefree and rebellious spirit of the 1970s counterculture. The film blends humor with a light-hearted commentary on the lifestyle and attitudes of its time, ultimately celebrating friendship and the pursuit of good times.

Characters

  • Cheech Marin plays Pedro De Pacas, a stoner who teams up with Anthony "Man" Stoner. They unknowingly smuggle a van made of marijuana from Mexico to Los Angeles.
  • Tommy Chong plays Anthony "Man" Stoner, a laid-back stoner who teams up with Pedro to form a band and inadvertently smuggle a van made of marijuana.
  • Strother Martin plays Arnold Stoner, the strict, disapproving father of Anthony "Man" Stoner, who disapproves of his son's lifestyle and antics.

Ending Explained

In Up in Smoke, the film culminates in a chaotic yet humorous finale that resolves the main conflict surrounding the protagonists' quest to deliver a van made entirely of marijuana to a concert in Los Angeles. After a series of misadventures, including run-ins with the law and various comedic obstacles, the duo finally arrives at the concert venue. However, their plans are nearly thwarted when they are pursued by the police, who have been alerted to their activities. In a frantic attempt to evade capture, the characters use the van's unique properties to their advantage, leading to a series of slapstick moments that showcase their resourcefulness. Ultimately, the duo manages to reach the concert, where they inadvertently become the stars of the show, turning their misfortune into a triumphant moment. The film concludes with a sense of camaraderie and celebration, as the characters embrace their unconventional lifestyle and the freedom it represents. The resolution highlights themes of friendship, rebellion, and the joy of living life on one's own terms, encapsulating the film's overall narrative of counterculture and the pursuit of happiness amidst societal constraints.

Lou Adler Tommy Chong Comedy Music Cheech Marin Tommy Chong Strother Martin