Pineapple Express (2008) – Movie Info
Release Date:
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August 6, 2008 (USA)
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Genre: Action-Comedy / Stoner Film
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Director: David Gordon Green
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Writers: Seth Rogen & Evan Goldberg
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Runtime: 1h 51m
Main Cast & Characters
| Actor | Role |
|---|---|
| Seth Rogen | Dale Denton (Process server & stoner) |
| James Franco | Saul Silver (Dale’s weed dealer) |
| Danny McBride | Red (Middleman drug dealer) |
| Gary Cole | Ted Jones (Drug lord) |
| Rosie Perez | Officer Carol Brazier (Corrupt cop) |
| Craig Robinson | Matheson (Ted’s henchman) |
| Kevin Corrigan | Budlofsky (Drug supplier) |
Plot Summary
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Dale Denton (Rogen), a lazy process server, witnesses a murder by a drug lord (Ted Jones) after buying a rare strain of weed called “Pineapple Express.”
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He panics and flees, leaving the joint behind, which can be traced back to his dealer, Saul (Franco).
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The duo goes on the run from hitmen, corrupt cops, and paranoid dealers in a chaotic, weed-fueled adventure.
Key Highlights
✔ Cult Stoner Classic – Known for its absurd humor and action-packed chase scenes.
✔ James Franco’s Breakout Role – Earned a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor (Comedy/Musical).
✔ Real-Life Strain – The fictional “Pineapple Express” weed inspired a real cannabis strain.
✔ Improvised Scenes – Many hilarious moments were unscripted (especially Franco & McBride’s lines).
Box Office & Reception
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Budget: $27 million
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Box Office: $101.6 million
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Rotten Tomatoes: 68% (Audience Score: 76%)
Fun Facts & Trivia
🌿 Seth Rogen & Evan Goldberg wrote the script in high school (originally a serious action film).
🚗 The car chase scene used real stunt drivers (no CGI).
🎥 James Franco ad-libbed most of his lines, making Saul hilariously clueless.
🍍 The title refers to a real weather phenomenon (a warm Pacific air current).
Where to Watch?
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Streaming: Available on Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu (varies by region).
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Rent/Buy: Apple TV, YouTube Movies, Google Play.