Ganja & Hess

  • 1973
  • R
  • 113m
movieMx RATING
5.8/1066
VERDICT
ABOVE AVERAGE
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Performance & Direction: Ganja & Hess Review

Last updated: February 21, 2026

movieMx Editorial Team
REVIEWED BY

movieMx Editorial Team

🔍 Cinematic Analysis Expert

Leading cinematic analysis expert with over 10 years of experience in Bollywood and Hollywood box office tracking. Reviewed 500+ films with a focus on narrative structure and commercial profitability.

📅 Updated: February 21, 2026 🎟️ Verified Viewing

🎬 Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?

Is Ganja & Hess (1973) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 5.8/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Drama.

🎭 Cast Performances: A Masterclass

The success of any Drama is often anchored by its ensemble, and Ganja & Hess features a noteworthy lineup led by Marlene Clark . Supported by the likes of Duane Jones and Bill Gunn , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.

Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.

💡 Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?

In summary, our editorial assessment of Ganja & Hess (1973) is mixed. With an audience rating of 5.8/10, it stands as a decent one-time watch.
Result: ABOVE AVERAGE
Based on verified audience sentiment and box office trajectory, Ganja & Hess stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE.

Story & Plot Summary: Ganja & Hess

Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1973, Ganja & Hess is a Drama, Fantasy, Horror film directed by Bill Gunn. The narrative explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Marlene Clark.

Ending Explained: Ganja & Hess

Ending Breakdown: Directed by Bill Gunn, Ganja & Hess attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to drama resolution.

The emotional climax centers on character transformation involving Marlene Clark, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.

Ending Analysis:

  • Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
  • Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
  • Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the drama themes established throughout the runtime.

The final moments of Ganja & Hess reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.

Who Should Watch Ganja & Hess?

Consider Watching If:

  • You're a completist for Drama films
  • You're curious despite mixed reviews
  • You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
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Top Cast: Ganja & Hess

All Cast & Crew →
Marlene Clark
Marlene ClarkGanja Meda
Duane Jones
Duane JonesDr. Hess Green
Bill Gunn
Bill GunnGeorge Meda
Sam Waymon
Sam WaymonRev. Luther Williams
Candece Tarpley
Candece TarpleyGirl in Bar
Richard Harrow
Richard HarrowDinner Guest
John Hoffmeister
John HoffmeisterJack Sargent
Betty Barney
Betty BarneySinger in Church
Mabel King
Mabel KingQueen of Myrthia
Enrico Fales
Enrico FalesDr. Green’s Son
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Where to Watch Ganja & Hess Online?

Streaming Hub

📺 Stream on

Criterion ChannelCriterion Channel
MetrographMetrograph
Kino Film CollectionKino Film Collection

🎟️ Rent on

Amazon VideoAmazon Video

🏷️ Buy on

Amazon VideoAmazon Video

Ganja & Hess Parents Guide & Age Rating

1973 Advisory
R

Official Age Rating

Wondering about Ganja & Hess age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:

Ganja & Hess is rated R. Parents should be aware that it contains frightening scenes, intense suspense. It is intended for mature audiences only.

⏱️ Runtime & Duration

The total runtime of Ganja & Hess is 113 minutes (1h 53m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.

Verdict Summary

Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 5.8/10, and global performance metrics, Ganja & Hess is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 1973 cinematic calendar.

ABOVE AVERAGE
Official movieMx status for Ganja & Hess. Rating: 5.8/10

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ganja & Hess worth watching?

Ganja & Hess is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies. It has a verified rating of 5.8/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.

Where can I find Ganja & Hess parents guide and age rating?

The official parents guide for Ganja & Hess identifies it as R. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.

What is the total runtime of Ganja & Hess?

The total duration of Ganja & Hess is 113 minutes, which is approximately 1h 53m long.

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Critic Reviews for Ganja & Hess

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movieMx Verified

This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.

This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.

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Expert Consensus
Live Rating
MOVIEMX
★ 5.8
Ganja & Hess
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