Marijuana and comics: History, curiosities and the characters The Superhighs and Marijuana Man
The relationship between the world of comics and cannabis has evolved over the decades. From iconic characters to stories that have revolutionized public perception, these two universes have merged in fascinating ways. In this article, we explore the standout characters from two legendary comics, The Superhighs and Marijuana Man, while also taking a look at the influence marijuana has had on comic creation and how this blend has left its mark on pop culture. Keep reading to discover how these characters emerged from counterculture and became symbols of cannabis activism and the power of imagination.
History of Marijuana in Comics
Cannabis has had an influence on popular culture that is reflected in many forms of art, including comics. In the 1960s and 70s, during the rise of counterculture and the legalization movements, many artists began to incorporate references to marijuana into their works. This trend continued, with characters portraying cannabis consumption not only as a symbol of rebellion but also as a tool for meditation and creativity.
Marijuanaman
Ziggy Marley, yes, Bob’s son, alongside Joe Casey and Jim Mahfood, created this marijuana superhero in April 2011. Ziggy himself introduces the project this way: “MarijuanaMan represents the hope of the future, the hope that there will come a time when we use all the power the universe has given us to save our planet.” The comic also explores the reality of why the plant has been criminalized and why it isn’t utilized in all its aspects. “In the early days of America’s history, this plant was used much more widely, and then it became demonized,” Ziggy explains.
As co-creator Joe Casey says, the classic superhero-villain fight is one of the comic’s main hooks, with the added twist of a plot to save the plants, sprinkled with touches of comedy and erotica. Jim Mahfood adds that, initially, Ziggy envisioned Marijuana Man as a movie script but passed it to Jim to see if it could be adapted into a comic. And so Marijuana Man was born, after many great brainstorming sessions between Marley, Casey, and Mahfood.
As for the storyline, we’ll give you the main idea without too many spoilers: MarijuanaMan is a man from a galaxy far, far away. He was sent to Earth in a spaceship that strangely resembles a water pipe. He has powers far beyond those of mortal men, thanks to the fact that his extraterrestrial biology is composed of THC instead of DNA. Furthermore, our hero is a pacifist, who actively seeks to avoid conflict. He is promoted as the world’s only hope against evil, represented by the megalomaniac corporation Pharma-Con, which develops and distributes synthetic pleasure-inducing drugs, allowing them to monopolize the prescription drug industry. Guess who is the only one capable of making change happen? MarijuanaMan, of course.
The character of Marijuana Man is a clear example of how marijuana can be used as a symbol of resistance and activism. This superhero comes from another planet, whose survival depends on THC, the active substance in cannabis. On Earth, Marijuana Man becomes an environmental defender, protecting the marijuana plant and fighting against corporations that threaten its existence.
And moreover, dear friends, Spanish readers can now enjoy Marijuanaman thanks to Khalada Comics, a Spanish store dedicated entirely to cannabis-related comics. Don’t miss out on their offerings, including comics like “Malviviendo” and the “HeroSeeds” series.
The Superhighs
Tired of reading the typical marijuana comic that’s just about smoking and having fun? Well, people like Dani Marie and Jessica Vitali play with new stereotypes in their debut comic “The Superhighs,” which you can now get on Kindle or by visiting their Facebook page.
Set in Chronicopia, Massachusetts, the story follows two young stoners who want to save the world by getting the biggest highs possible. The superhero duo, Mia and Clarissa, work at a restaurant during the day and save the world at night. Having a heart attack and need CPR? Is your cat stuck in a tree? The Superhighs will be there to lend a hand, but all the while watching their backs, as the government is out to capture them.
The Superhighs are a group of characters who, as their name suggests, are inspired by cannabis culture. Each of them has powers that are related to the effects of marijuana consumption, whether it’s stress relief, creativity, or relaxation. Their adventures are filled with references to cannabis counterculture and include nods to the fight for legalization.
While there are many comic representations, there are very few that treat marijuana with maximum positivity. With numerous states legalizing marijuana and many approaching decriminalization, Danie Marie seeks to deepen the dialogue on marijuana use by creating a graphic novel that portrays responsible marijuana consumers in a positive light. We find these proposals that depict marijuana in a different way very interesting, not as the black sheep many prohibitionists dream about.
So we highly recommend reading this comic and encourage cannabis comic artists to start proposing new visions that are more in line with the times we live in. If this continues, decriminalization could be even closer.
As you can see, these two comics offer very different examples of marijuana-related comics, but with a significant commonality: giving marijuana the importance it deserves, explaining the benefits of its consumption and debunking all the myths created around it from time immemorial. In other words, saving marijuana from baseless definitions. From here, we encourage all graphic novel writers and illustrators to publish cannabis-related stories that are closer to reality, more relatable, which many of us will appreciate.
Cultural Impact of Marijuana in Comics
The cultural impact of marijuana in comics goes beyond characters like Marijuana Man or the Superhighs. The plant has been a symbol of creative freedom for many artists who, through their stories, have challenged social norms and proposed a shift in thinking. In some cases, marijuana consumption is a metaphor for mental freedom, the fight against oppression, or a way to connect with nature. These comics have also helped spread a message of legalization and have served as educational tools that teach the public about the benefits of cannabis.
Curiosities and References to Cannabis in Other Comics
Over the years, cannabis has appeared in comics in more subtle ways. Characters in popular comics have referenced or been shown in situations involving marijuana use. For example, in some issues of The Simpsons, the character Otto makes references to his ‘love for herbs.’ In independent comics like ‘Fabulous Furry Freak Brothers,’ cannabis becomes the central theme of a group of hippies’ adventures. These appearances reinforce the influence cannabis has had on popular culture and in the collective imagination of comic readers.
Recommendations of Other Cannabis-Related Comics
If you’re interested in know about more comics related with marijuana, here you have a list of the most weel known.
1. The Fabulous Furry Freak Brothers
A cult series created by Gilbert Shelton, featuring three hippie characters: Freewheelin’ Franklin, Phineas, and Fat Freddy. These satirical comics explore the counterculture of the 60s and 70s, with cannabis consumption as the central theme of their misadventures.
2. Bluntman and Chronic
Created by Kevin Smith, this comic parodies traditional superheroes, featuring two marijuana-smoking characters who fight crime while high. The characters are based on Jay and Silent Bob from Smith’s popular film franchise.
3. Cheech & Chong Chronicles
Inspired by the famous comedians of cannabis films, Cheech & Chong Chronicles brings the hilarious, stoned adventures of this iconic 70s counterculture duo to the comic format.
4. Marijuana Man
Created by Ziggy Marley, this alien superhero needs THC to survive and fights to save Earth and its most precious plant, marijuana. Besides heroic adventures, this comic promotes sustainability and environmental defense messages.
5. Weed Magic
This independent comic follows the story of two best friends who discover a magical strain of marijuana that grants them supernatural powers. The story blends humor, action, and adventures centered on cannabis culture.
6. Reefer Madness
A comic inspired by the infamous anti-marijuana propaganda film of the 1930s. Instead of scaring readers, this comic satirizes cannabis myths, using humor and cannabis references to educate about the plant’s true nature.
7. Dope Rider
A comic series illustrated by Paul Kirchner, where a skeletal cowboy named Dope Rider embarks on surreal, marijuana-fueled adventures in the desert. The psychedelic graphics and bizarre storyline give this comic a unique edge.
8. King Bong
This comedic series revolves around a gigantic bong (water pipe) that grants special powers to its users. Filled with pop culture references and hilarious scenes, King Bong has earned a spot in the world of marijuana-related comics.
9. The Adventures of Superstoner
This comic follows the adventures of a superhero whose power comes from consuming marijuana. With humor at the center, Superstoner fights crime and promotes cannabis acceptance in an irreverent way.
10. Hempi the Hemp Hero
A superhero with an educational message, Hempi is dedicated to teaching people about the benefits of hemp and cannabis. Though more informative than action-packed, this comic helps demystify cannabis with a fun, educational approach.
The relationship between comics and marijuana has developed over the decades, especially since the 1960s and 70s, when the rise of counterculture and legalization movements influenced many artists. In comics, marijuana has been used as a symbol of rebellion, creativity, and meditation, blending both universes in fascinating and provocative ways.
Marijuana Man is a superhero created by Ziggy Marley, Joe Casey, and Jim Mahfood. He is an alien whose sustenance depends on THC, the active compound in marijuana. On Earth, he fights against corporations that threaten the environment and the marijuana plant. He represents resistance, activism, and the protection of cannabis as a valuable natural resource.
The Superhighs are a group of comic characters inspired by cannabis culture. Each of them has powers related to the effects of marijuana consumption, such as relaxation, creativity, or stress relief. In their adventures, they fight to save the world while referencing cannabis counterculture and the fight for legalization.
Cannabis has influenced comics as a symbol of creative freedom, especially since the 1960s. It has served as a tool for artists to challenge social norms, using marijuana as a metaphor for mental freedom, rebellion, and connection with nature. This influence is reflected in characters who consume cannabis and in stories that advocate for legalization and the benefits of marijuana.
Some iconic marijuana-related comics include The Fabulous Furry Freak Brothers, Bluntman and Chronic, Cheech & Chong Chronicles, Weed Magic, and Reefer Madness. These comics explore cannabis-related themes, from humor and satire to activism and heroic adventures.
Hempi the Hemp Hero is an educational superhero dedicated to teaching people about the benefits of hemp and cannabis. While not as action-focused as other characters, Hempi plays an important role in demystifying cannabis and promoting its responsible use from an educational perspective.
What is the connection between comics and marijuana?
Who is Marijuana Man and what does he represent?
What are The Superhighs?
How has cannabis influenced comics throughout history?
What other marijuana-related comics are recommended?
What does the character Hempi the Hemp Hero represent?
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Founder of Experiencia Natural, creative and entrepreneur, designer, master in grower and marketing. For a normalization of all plants and substances, giving priority to patients and users.
