SYNOPSIS

About the Film

The award-winning American Pot Story: Oaksterdam revolves around Oaksterdam University, the world’s first cannabis college, and tells the unknown origin story of the people who took monumental risks to make cannabis legalization possible. It celebrates the courageous heritage of the legacy industry and the movement that started at OU and would go on to impact the world.

Created by critically-acclaimed filmmakers Dan Katzir and Ravit Markus, the documentary sheds light on the cannabis legalization movement through the lens of OU leaders. Katzir and Markus spent 10 years shadowing OU Founder Richard Lee and Executive Chancellor Dale Sky Jones as they fought to get the Prop 19 legalization measure on the ballot in California, then as they weathered a federal raid that threatened to shut them down. The film captures their struggles and triumphs as they fought to bring this topic to the mainstream.

 

American Pot Story

Screening Events

Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival

High Street Arts Center

45 East High Street, Moorpark, CA 93021

Moorpark Film Festival

September 8, 2024

The award-winning documentary “American Pot Story: Oaksterdam” will be screened as part of the 2024 Moorpark Film Festival in Moorpark, California, which features a variety of short and feature-length documentaries from all over the world.

“American Pot Story: Oaksterdam” has won several awards and nominations at prestigious film festivals nationwide. It is deemed “a must-watch for every American” by the publication Film Threat.

Visionaries Film Festival 

September 21, 2024 | Film: 4:00 PM

To be attended by filmmakers Dan Katzir and Ravit Markus

TICKETS:  https://visionariesfilmfestival.com/

Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival

The Music Hall

9036 Wilshire Boulevard Beverly Hills, California 90211

Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival

Alhecama Theatre

215a East Canon Perdido Street
Santa Barbara, California 93101

Santa Barbara Film Festival

Saturday, October 5, 2024 | 7:00pm

“American Pot Story: Oaksterdam” has won several awards and nominations at prestigious film festivals nationwide. It is deemed “a must-watch for every American” by the publication Film Threat.

Filmmakers Dan Katzir and Ravit Markus, Priscilla Agoncillo, and Dale Sky Jones, who stars in the film, will attend the screening. Afterparty will be hosted by Glass House Brands.

TICKETS: https://www.sbindiefilmfest.com/

Past Screenings

Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival

Limelight Theater

349 Decatur St. SE, Atlanta, Georgia, 30312

Atlanta Underground Film Festival

August 16, 2024 | Film: 2:30 PM

Award-winning documentary American Pot Story: Oaksterdam is part of some incredible independent features and shorts at the 21st annual AUFF. 

 

24th Annual Valley Film Festival

August 6, 2024 | Film: 7:30 PM | Filmmaker Q&A 

Award-winning documentary American Pot Story: Oaksterdam is part of a cannabis and cinema immersive experience at The Valley Film Festival (VFF) was founded by Los Angeles native, and proud “Valley Girl,” Tracey Adlai, in 2000, to spotlight locally produced films in response to the San Fernando Valley’s attempt to secede from Los Angele

Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival

Laemmle Theater North Hollywood

5240 Lankershim Blvd, Los Angeles

Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival

Sparta Avenue Stage

10 Sparta Avenue North, Sparta, New Jersey 07871

 

New Jersey Documentary Film Festival

July 13th, 2024 |  Film: 8:00 PM

The award-winning documentary “American Pot Story: Oaksterdam” will be screened as part of the 2024 New Jersey Documentary Film Festival in Sparta, New Jersey, which features a variety of short and feature-length documentaries from all over the world.

“American Pot Story: Oaksterdam” has won several awards and nominations at prestigious film festivals nationwide. It is deemed “a must-watch for every American” by the publication Film Threat.

The documentary is an important historical chronicle of the groundbreaking Proposition 19 legalization campaign that thrust the emergency cannabis industry into the mainstream. It is also an inspiring reminder of how democracy can work when people unite to fulfill our pledge to liberty and justice for all. 

Green Jack International Film Festival

July 6, 2024 | Film: 12:15 PM 

Award-winning documentary American Pot Story: Oaksterdam will be screened as part of the 2024 annual Green Jack International Film Festival where cinematic excellence meets the serene beauty of Big Bear Lake!

Nestled amidst the majestic mountains of California, our festival promises an unforgettable experience for film enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

American Pot Story: Oaksterdam has won several awards and nominations at prestigious film festivals nationwide. It is deemed “a must-watch for every American” by the publication Film Threat

Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival

Big Bear Performing Arts Center

39707 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA

Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival

Roosevelt Island Film Festival

548 Main Street, Roosevelt Island, NY 10044

Ticket Link: https://filmfreeway.com/RooseveltIslandFilmFestival/tickets

Block 7

2024 Roosevelt Island Film Festival

June 29th, 2024 |  Film: 2:00 PM

Award-winning documentary “American Pot Story: Oaksterdam” will be screened as part of the 2024 annual Roosevelt Island Film Festival is dedicated to the discovery of American and International filmmakers from around the world. The festival seeks to discover, support, and inspire quality independent feature films and short films, showcasing exceptional work to audiences and highlighting the categories of Female Filmmaker, NYC Filmmaker, Comedy, and International Filmmaker.

American Pot Story: Oaksterdam has won several awards and nominations at prestigious film festivals nationwide. It is deemed “a must-watch for every American” by the publication Film Threat

2024 Mendocino Film Festival

May 31, 2024 | Film: 7:30 PM | Meet the Filmmakers After-Party: 9:30 PM

Award-winning documentary American Pot Story: Oaksterdam is part of a cannabis and cinema immersive experience at the Mendocino Film Festival

WHO: Filmmakers Ravit Markus, along with Oaksterdam University Executive Chancellor Dale Sky Jones attend the Mendocino premiere of American Pot Story followed by a Q&A and Afterparty.

WHAT: The film continues its film festival circuit racking up accolades along the way, including a mention on the prestigious Popcorn List, celebrating the best undiscovered indie films.

WHERE: The movie will be shown at 45062 Ukiah St., Mendocino, CA 95460. The afterparty is at Fog Eater Cafe, 45104 Main St, Mendocino, CA 95460

WHY: Curated cannabis-themes goodie bags will be available for purchase at Sol de Mendocino, featuring products from the Mendocino Cannabis Alliance, including award-winning farmers and brands that have played a pivotal role in shaping the region’s craft cannabis culture.

Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival

Mendocino Film Festival

45062 Ukiah St., Mendocino, CA 95460

Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival

Historic Malco Theatre

817 Central Avenue, Hot Springs, Arkansas 71901

2024 Hot Springs International Women’s Film Festival

May 12th, 2024 |  Film: 5:50 PM

Award-winning documentary “American Pot Story: Oaksterdam” will be screened as part of the 9th annual Hot Springs International Women’s Film Festival, celebrating the power of film and the incredible talents of filmmakers from around the globe. 

American Pot Story: Oaksterdam has won several awards and nominations at prestigious film festivals nationwide. It is deemed “a must-watch for every American” by the publication Film Threat

Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival

2024 Indie Vegas Film Festival

April 27, 2024 |  Film: 8:00 PM

Award-winning documentary “American Pot Story: Oaksterdam” will be screened as part of the Indie Vegas Film Festival as a celebration of independent cinema. This festival showcases films from emerging filmmakers and provides a unique opportunity for film lovers to discover new talent and engage with the independent film community.

WHAT: American Pot Story: Oaksterdam filmmakers Dan Katzir and Ravit Markus will attend the screening. 

WHERE: Cinemark Century Orleans 18 and XD – 4500 West Tropicana Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89103

WHY: American Pot Story: Oaksterdam has won several awards and nominations at prestigious film festivals around the country. It is deemed “a must-watch for every American” by the publication Film Threat

Winner: Audience Choice Award

Cinemark Century Orleans 18 and XD at The Orleans Hotel & Casino

4500 West Tropicana Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89103

Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival

Groundwork Screening Room I

1213 Purchase St, New Bedford, MA 02740

2024 New Bedford Film Festival

April 19, 2024 |  Film: 11:00 AM

Award-winning documentary “American Pot Story: Oaksterdam” will be screened as part of the New Bedford Film Festival, which celebrates authentic cinematic stories, cultivates bold storytellers, and champions the city’s growing creative economy. It will be preceded by the documentary short “Burning the Mishoon.”

WHERE: Groundwork New Bedford, Screening Room I, 1213 Purchase St., New Bedford, MA 02740

WHY: American Pot Story: Oaksterdam has won several awards and nominations at prestigious film festivals around the country. It is deemed “a must-watch for every American” by the publication Film Threat

 

St Augustine Film Festival

14th Annual Saint Augustine Film Festival

January 14, 2023 |  Film : 1:15 PM

Join us for the 14th Annual Saint Augustine Film Festival, where the Oaksterdam film, titled ‘American Pot Story,’ will captivate audiences. The festival will include over 30 independent and international films screened across various venues throughout the city.

WHAT: A screening for an Award-winning documentary feature American Pot Story: Oaksterdam

WHEN: Sunday, January 14 at 1:15 PM ET

WHERE: Gamache-Koger Theatre – 50 Sevilla St, St. Augustine, FL 32084

WHY: American Pot Story: Oaksterdam won several awards and nominations at prestigious film festivals around the country. It was deemed “a must-watch for every American” by the publication Film Threat.

HOW: For those eager to experience the magic of the silver screen, mark your calendars, and secure your tickets before they sell out, limited seats available!

Gamache-Koger Theatre

50 Sevilla St, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Dances with Films NYC 2023

Dances With Films NYC Festival

December 3, 2023 | Red Carpet: 3:30 PM | Film & Q&A: 4:15 PM | Afterparty: Everything’s Jake Bar & Lounge

You are invited to the New York premiere of the award-winning documentary American Pot Story: Oaksterdam at the Regal Union Square, followed by an after-party at Everything’s Jake Bar & Lounge, hosted by Oaksterdam Nonprofit for Education. 

WHAT: A screening and reception for Slamdance Audience Award-winning documentary feature American Pot Story: Oaksterdam

WHEN: Sunday, December 3rd at 4:15 pm (Red Carpet at 3:30), followed by an afterparty at Everything’s Jake Bar & Lounge, hosted by Oaksterdam Nonprofit for Education. 

WHERE: Regal Union Square 850 Broadway New York, NY 10003

WHO: Directors Dan Katzir and Ravit Markus and film participants Dale Sky Jones and Jeff Jones of Oaksterdam University will attend, plus surprise guests (prior screening events featured Tommy Chong, Redman, and Big Steve Parish). Additional notable film participants are Richard Lee, Tommy Chong, Danny Glover, Governor Gavin Newsom, and Congresswoman Barbara Lee.

WHY: American Pot Story: Oaksterdam won several awards and nominations at prestigious film festivals around the country. It was deemed “a must-watch for every American” by the publication Film Threat.

HOW: A ticket to the film gets you into the exclusive afterparty at Everything’s Jake Bar & Lounge hosted by Oaksterdam Nonprofit for Education.

Regal Union Square

850 Broadway, New York, NY 10003

Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival

Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival

November 12, 2023 | Red Carpet: 6PM | Film & Q&A: 7PM | Afterparty: 9PM

Celebrating its 38th annual festival in 2023, the Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival (FLIFF) presents American indies and studio films, international films, student films, special tributes, seminars and introduces filmmakers to South Florida audiences. The festival runs November 3-16, 2023, and screens 200 films in Fort Lauderdale, Sunrise, Hollywood, St Augustine, and The Bahamas. Considered one of the most important regional film festivals in the U.S., the festival is committed to first-time filmmakers and innovative programming.

Savor Cinema

503 SE 6th Street, Fort Lauderdale 33301

Weyauwega International Film Festival

Weyauwega International Film Festival – Wisconsin

November 9, 2023 | Film & Q&A: 6:30PM 

2023 Highlights – Our thirteenth annual festival features fifty-five films from around the globe.

All films screen at the historic Gerold Opera House in Weyauwega, Wisconsin. The Gerold features a full bar and menu from the Wega Bistro. Stay for the day! Director Ravit Markus will be in attendance for the screening.

WINNER OF THE AUDIENCE AWARD AT SLAMDANCE 2023, American Pot Story: Oaksterdam is a documentary about how change transpires in America. The account of “a small group of concerned committed citizens” (to quote Margaret Mead) who took a huge risk in order to bring about a massive shift in public perception. It all happened at Oaksterdam University in Oakland , California – a magical place where cannabis history was made, falling right in place with Oakland’s rich history of civil resistance. Today when we see celebrities and corporations get into the cannabis business it’s easy to forget how many millions of people unjustly suffered and still suffer because of the American drug policy. Our documentary is not just an important historical chronicle of a campaign that brought into the mainstream a taboo topic, it’s also an inspiring reminder of how democracy can work when people come together in an effort to fulfill our pledge to liberty and justice for all.

Gerold Opera House

136 E Main Street, Weyauwega, WI 54983

Topanga Film Festival Los Angeles<br />

Topanga Film Festival Los Angeles

October 21, 2023 – 3 PM PT

Nominated as “One of the 25 coolest film festivals in the world” by Filmmaker Magazine, the acclaimed Topanga Film Festival is now in its 17th year, and programs short and feature films that challenge convention and tell stories that inspire new and original ways of seeing, understanding, and being in the world.

The Topanga Film Institute holds the annual Topanga Film Festival. Founded in 2004 it includes screenings, workshops, panels, mixers, and other events to present work that is courageous, innovative, and that inspires action.

Froggy’s

1105 N. Topanga Canyon Blvd., Topanga, CA 90290

Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival

Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival

November 12, 2023 | Red Carpet: 6PM | Film & Q&A: 7PM | Afterparty: 9PM

Celebrating its 38th annual festival in 2023, the Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival (FLIFF) presents American indies and studio films, international films, student films, special tributes, seminars and introduces filmmakers to South Florida audiences. The festival runs November 3-16, 2023, and screens 200 films in Fort Lauderdale, Sunrise, Hollywood, St Augustine, and The Bahamas. Considered one of the most important regional film festivals in the U.S., the festival is committed to first-time filmmakers and innovative programming.

Savor Cinema

503 SE 6th Street, Fort Lauderdale 33301

SMODCASTLE Film Festival image

SModcastle Film Festival New Jersey

October 15-17, 2023 | American Pot Story screening time Friday October 13 9:30 PM ET

From Kevin Smith & Friends comes a film festival so fit for a King or Queen that it can only take place in the SmodCastle! Presenting the Second Annual SModcastle Film Festival — a Central Jersey showcase of cinema hosted by the guy who made Clerks. Welcoming entries from all over the world, the SModcastle Film Festival will be a four-day fall event filled with features, short films, animation, documentaries and more. The festival will include an opening day filmmaker meet and greet, panels and awards ceremony.

Smodcastle Cinemas

82 First Ave., Atlantic Highlands, NJ 07716

Dances with Films Festival

JUNE 29, 2023 | Red Carpet – 6:40 | Film & Q&A – 7pm

DANCES WITH FILMS, now in its 25th year, champions the unflinching spirit at the very core of the independent film scene. While the vast majority of film fests rely heavily on celebrity, DWF has relied on the innovation, talent, creativity and sweat equity that revolutionized the entertainment industry. That reliance continues to prove successful with alumni moving on to write, direct and produce celebrity-studded vehicles, star in blockbuster movies and television series, produce multi-million dollar films and create hit TV shows. The festival even has several OSCAR® nominees … In a world of homogenized, formulaic film festivals, DWF:LA continues to defy the rules.

TCL Chinese Theatres, Hollywood

6801 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028

After Party

Hosted at Teddy’s Lounge at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, by Incognito Cannabis Beverages and Oaksterdam Nonprofit for Education. A ticket for the film gets you into the party.

Lighthouse International Film Festival

JUNE 10, 2023 | 3:45 PM ET

The Lighthouse International Film Festival is a celebration of cinema, creativity, and community on Long Beach Island, N.J. This year’s festival, taking place from June 7-11, promises to be a spectacular showcase of films handpicked from top film festivals worldwide, including Sundance, SXSW, TIFF, and more.

LONG BEACH ISLAND FOUNDATION

120 Long Beach Blvd, Long Beach, NJ 08008

Post-Screening Q&A

In person with Film Director Ravit Markus, along with film participant Evan Nison.

After Party

Afterward, join the Oaksterdam Nonprofit for Education (The ONE), a 501(c)(3) for an after-party hosted by The Arcview Group at the Firefly Gallery.

SPONSORS

Special Thanks to Our Sponsors

Slamdance Film Festival 2023

JANUARY 20, 2023 | 10:15 AM MST

TREASURE MOUNTAIN INN

255 Main St, Park City, UT 84060

Post-Screening Q&A

Followed by a Q&A with New Love filmmakers Ravit Markus and Dan Katzir

How Advocacy Shapes Policy

FILM PANEL PRESENTED BY TRUCE
JANUARY 24, 2023 | 3PM MST

From California to Utah, access to medical cannabis has been created by dedicated individuals who saw the need across their communities and stayed focused on bringing patients together to use their voices to advocate for progress. During our time together, we will have an intimate discussion about the landscape of cannabis advocacy, the work that leads to progress, and the passion behind the movement that continues in Utah and across our country.

Student Union, University of Utah

200 S, Central Campus Dr, Salt Lake City, UT 84112

Panelists

Christine Stenquist, TRUCE

Diane Goldstein, LEAP

Dale Sky Jones, Oaksterdam University

Jeff Jones, Oaksterdam University

Weldon Angelos, The Weldon Project

SPONSORS

Special Thanks to Our Sponsors

The Team Behind the Documentary

New Love Films is a Los Angeles based creative company that produces award-winning critically-acclaimed content for film, television, and digital platforms. Our films aired on HBO, Channel 4 UK, and France 2, to name a few; played in movie theaters across the US garnering stellar reviews in the LA TIMES, NY TIMES, and the Hollywood Reporter, as well as many other publications; and have been screened in hundreds of film festivals, Ivy League universities, museums and other educational institutions around the world. We collaborate with networks, non-profit and corporate clients in the US, Europe and Israel, providing production services from inception, through research, all the way to post-production. Past clients include Mentorn/Channel 4 UK, Channels 8, 10 and 1 Israel.

Joey Ereneta

Ravit Markus

Producer/Director

Evian Ita Colton

Dan Katzir

Writer + Director