Lady Buds

Released in 2021, "Lady Buds" is a documentary film that highlights the changing landscape of the cannabis industry in California, particularly emphasizing the role of women and their struggle to secure a place in an industry that has rapidly moved from the fringes to the legal mainstream.

As the director, Chris J. Russo has crafted an eloquent portrayal of six women—a unique combination of entrepreneurs, activists, farmers, and grandmothers—who fight against bureaucracy, societal judgment, and the turbulence of a budding industry to make an empire out of the controversial cannabis plant. Through this film, Russo presents a compelling, multidimensional view of the traditionally male-dominated world of cannabis production and commerce.

One of the primary characters, Felicia Carbajal, is captured as a social justice advocate and queer Latinx, striving to ensure that marginalized communities aren't excluded from the so-called 'Green Rush'. Tireless and outspoken, Carbajal uses her platform to fight for those groups that may be left behind, striving for equity and access for all.

Then we have Joyce Centofanti, an off-the-grid backcountry farmer living in the emerald triangle, which is known as California's cannabis heartland. She has been growing cannabis for decades, dealing with prohibition and law enforcement. The film captures her transition from underground cultivation to legitimate farming, emphasizing the challenges of staying compliant with ever-changing cannabis laws.

Cheryl Mumzer Goldman, a retired lawyer, and her elderly friend Sue Taylor decided to invest in a cannabis dispensary. Their ambition is to provide the elderly population with an alternative, more natural method of pain management, boost their wellness, and change the misconceptions surrounding cannabis use.

"Lady Buds" introduces us to Karyn Wagner, a pioneer in developing cannabis-infused sexual health products for women. She is widely known for creating the industry's first cannabis-infused sexual lubricant. She uses her extensive knowledge of the plant's medicinal benefits to target a female market and contribute to the destigmatization of cannabis use among women.

The movie also sheds light on a family of growers known as The Bud Sisters. Through the lens of their experience, viewers gain insights into the struggles faced by small growers to compete in a market that's becoming increasingly dominated by larger, corporate entities.

In "Lady Buds", emphasis is placed on the human stories and changes triggered by the legalization of cannabis in California, rather than the broader political implications. The film brilliantly shows how these tough women are not only breaking the grass ceiling but equally fighting for social justice and shaking off the accumulated stigma of decades of prohibition.

Through intimate interviews, beautiful landscape shots, and a close inspection of their day-to-day businesses, "Lady Buds" delves into the lives of these women, examining their individual and collective challenges, victories, and ambitions. It's a portrayal full of laughs, tears, struggles, and resilience that underscores the passionate nature of this still new and evolving industry.

"Lady Buds" does not just document the 'Green Rush'; it also showcases the raw struggles of women finding their footing and raising their voices in an industry that is still tackling societal taboos. Although the world of cannabis legalization and harvesting is still uncharted territory for many, this documentary successfully gives viewers an intriguing peek into the industry.

From a broader perspective, "Lady Buds" encourages us to reassess our stance towards the women who are molding this industry and breaking stereotypes while they're at it. It's a call to action for better representation, equal opportunities, and equitable policies in the rapidly evolving cannabis industry.

In conclusion, "Lady Buds" is a must-watch, not only for individuals interested in the cannabis industry but also for those intrigued by the blending of business and advocacy. It's not just about the 'Bud', it’s about the buds—the sisters, mothers, daughters, and friends—who come together to create a world where green means go, growth, and ultimately, greater good.