Is Legally High Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2013)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

In the evolving tapestry of Documentary cinema, the 2013 release of Legally High stands as a landmark endeavor that pushes the boundaries of conventional storytelling. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into Recent years have seen a step-change in Britain's drug culture. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Documentary are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "Recent years have seen a step-change in Britain's drug culture. Out go the 'old' illegal drugs, cocaine, heroin, speed - swept to one side by a younger generation who can get their hits not only more cheaply but also legally. There is burgeoning market for drugs specially designed by clandestine chemists to get around Britain's drug laws. The new drugs are legal to buy because they're sold as research chemicals and labelled 'not for human consumption'. This hard-hitting observational documentary, Legally High - directed by triple BAFTA-award winner Dan Reed, takes a trip into the murky world of legal drugs, where underground chemists invent new drugs faster than the government can legislate against them."

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. While the script occasionally leans into familiar territory, the efforts of Steven Baxter ensure that the emotional beats of Legally High always land with sufficient weight. Steven Baxter provides a steady, reliable performance that anchors the film through its narrative shifts.

The direction by Dan Reed is marked by a steady and professional hand. From a production standpoint, the film meets the high standards of modern industrial filmmaking. The sets are well-crafted, and the visual effects are integrated with a level of polish that ensures the viewer matches the director's intended level of immersion. While perhaps not groundbreaking, the execution is flawless. The pacing, over its 47 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is Legally High truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Documentary, then this is a worthwhile watch if you have a specific interest in the themes or the performers involved.

The film's ability to perfectly execute its genre requirements is why it has earned its 5.7/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, Legally High explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 2013 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Dan Reed respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, Legally High serves as a reliable piece of entertainment that will satisfy core fans while providing a solid entry point for new viewers. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Steven Baxter or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, Legally High is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.