Why Is The Big Lebowski a Stoner Favorite?

Whenever I think cult-classic stoner films, “The Big Lebowski” is always the first to come to mind. The film came out more than 22 years ago, yet is still one of the most beloved movies of it’s kind.

The movie stars Jeff Bridges as the Dude — a stoned yet profound slacker and his journey to avenge his soiled rug. If only the Dude knew what kind of trouble that rug would get him in. His journey for justice pushes him down the rabbit hole of conspiracy, surreal drug-induced nightmares, and crime. Granted, these circumstances are mostly, if not always out of his hands.

The Dude is dragged along a journey akin to “Alice in Wonderland.” Along the way we meet an incredible supporting cast of characters.

There’s John Goodman as a complicated Vietnam vet with fierce hair. Steve Buscemi, who plays the timid Donny and is constantly told to “shut the fuck up.” And John Turturro as a pedophile bowler named Jesus.

“The Big Lebowski” is the perfect stoner film because even it doesn’t seem to know what it’ll do next. It’s world is too unpredictable and full of irreverent characters. Moreover, directors, the Coen brothers do an excellent job at capturing the flatline feeling of modern day suburbia.

The Shocking Impact of The Big Lebowski

“The Big Lebowski” wasn’t a big box office hit but it soon became a widely successful cult classic.

It’s a right of passage movie for stoners everywhere. And it’s iconic poster is hung throughout college dorms across the world. The film has also sparked its own festival, and even inspired its own religion.

The devil is in the details when watching “The Big Lebowski.” It’s one of those films that may seem innocent on the surface, but is instead rife with genius writing and callbacks. It’s one of those movies you have to watch twice. And one of them you better be high.

Conversely, some people hate “The Big Lebowski.” They say it’s pointless, directionless and low-brow.

Once again, from a surface level, this might be true. However, as the dude so aptly puts it:

“Yeah, well, you know, that’s just, like, your opinion, man.”