American Drug War Testimonials

Dear Mr. Booth,

I'm not sure if your going to get my email as the more I read about you online it seems your pretty famous and busy to say the least, but I just wanted to tell you that I watched your documentary today and was absolutely blown away.

I am a college student going on my last year (starting in the fall) at St. Edwards University in Austin Texas. I thought I heard in your documentary America Drug War when you were interviewing Tommy Chong that you were from Austin or based out of Austin which I thought was pretty cool.

I have been studying media production and theory for the last year both in Eastern Europe last semester and now in Sydney Australia so I am constantly watching and analyzing documentaries everyday and can honestly say that yours is one of my favorites (I am writing you this only an hour after viewing it and am about to watch it again), that is America Drug War.

Now I don't know if I should finish my degree and start doing work like you do or become an activist which is an incredible reaction that I hope most of your audience experienced. I hope when I graduate I can do what you did with this amazing documentary and would love it if you have any tips to getting started with this kind of film making. If you don't have the time or if this email does not get to you I completely understand and just wish you the best of luck in the future, maybe I'll see you sometime down on 6th street or around South Congress.

Thanks for your time,

Will

I am the president of a club at Central Washington University in Ellensburg, Washington and I just held a screening of your awesome documentary. I am pleased to say it got very good reviews from the about 40-50 people that attended. I would like to thank you again for allowing me the oppurtunity to screen your film and would also like to express my gratitude for all the hard work that went into creating the movie, it is very inspiring and well done.

Thanks for everything,

David

Dear Kevin,

I just watched your documentary, American Drug War: The Last White Hope, and i must say that it was brilliant. The American Public needs to be educated not only on the development of drug laws in America and the Drug War, but also on the corruption in Washington. You're film inspired not only myself, but also the many people have also viewed it as well. Soon, maybe America will realize that they aren't being told the whole truth...again, your film, amazing. I just really wanted to tell you that.

Sincerely,

Ryan M.

Hello,

My name is Dillon, I'm 16 years old and recently got arrested for simple possession. Now I have a criminal record, I can't get a job, no school will accept me, and I have to work extra hard to prove myself to people who think I'm the scum of the earth because i smoke weed. I'm tired of marijuana being on the same level as other drugs, I'm tired of seeing harmless peoples futures ruined, and I'm tired of dumbasses handling the war on drugs. People don't listen when the change of marijuana laws are talked about because they know they're wrong about it, and people are affraid of what they don't understand. They need people who are educated on the real facts of marijuana to take control and open everyones eyes so they can find the REAL problem in this country.

Dear Mr. Booth,

I just wanted to write to tell you how moved I was, and am, of your recent documentary. Being and ex-non-violent incarcerated male in America,who served 3 years on N.C. mandatory sentence law (1st offense), it's great to see that someone hears, sees, and is willing to show the world just what has been going on in the U.S. and just how fucked up our laws are nation wide.

Thank You! It really means alot to me.THANK YOU... for educating a nation, and the world.

Many Blessings to You,

Michael

Dear Kevin Booth,

My name is Cody. I am a junior at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Recently I have devoted most of my time to become educated on the current war on drugs and what it is doing. I have begun to align myself next to groups such as MMP.org, LEAP.cc, and others but thus far nothing has motivated me more than the video I just watched. I continuously search for information and documentaries on the war on drugs but only today did I come across your documentary. I was so moved that I am now sending you this message. I want you to know that your effort has not gone unnoticed and I want to personally thank you for the work you have done. Because of people like you my children willbe able to grow up in a better world. But that world is not here yet. We will not give up. I am writing to ask if there is any way to get a hard copy, or at least a digital copy, of your documentary. It is something that I feel like I need to show a lot of people.

God's Speed,

Cody

Hi,

My name is Lauren and I just saw the movie on Showtime. I can say wholeheartedly that this documentary has really made me a new woman. I loved the facts that you presented and the PEOPLE that presented them. If there is anything I can say, you have a gift.v Besides the great cinematic work, you have the eye for knowledge. That may not be a big deal to you guys but in a world of ignorance, knowledge is the only weapon. SO THANK YOU!

Lauren

Hello Mr. Booth,

My name is Jon and I just watched your latest documentary on Showtime, it is an amazing film. I really hope that it can reach the majority of the American public on a level like it reached me. I can relate to many of the things that you had to deal with growing up, my father and mother both being hardcore conservatives, especially my father. He as well was diagnosed with cancer and refused to smoke marijuana. I am fortunate that he came out of his serious surgery healthy for now, but the question is whats next? My step-mother is a hardcore alcohol and tobacco user and I wonder where this is all going to take her and others that suffer from the same drug problems. Drugs are drugs.

Sincerely,

Jon

Hello, Mr. Booth,

I have just watched your documentary about the american war on drugs, and I would very much like to thank you for making this very very important movie. Although I'm actually sick to my stomach after watching it, I have gained a few new perspectives on your country's war on drugs. I have been a smoker for 20 years (I am 37 now), and have never seen any person take damage from cannabis yet! Yet the norwegian government too is fighting this harmless substance tooth and nail with a legislation based solely on irrational, mythical, so-called facts. Here the war is propagated by the narcotics police, who of course have every interest in keeping their jobs, and therefore have no genuine interest in winning their war on drugs.

But I see it's much worse than I could have imagined (And I have a pretty good imagination) in the US. I have never thought about the penal system as a new form of slavery, but it's pretty fucking obvious now my attention has been brought onto the subject. I think the US is in a world of shit, and I really think it will take a proper revolution to free your country from the total corruption that lies at the core of your country's government. I mean, USA is basically run by a bunch of coke-lords right now! I used to think of your country as the defender of freedom in this world when I was younger, but have learned since that it is actually becoming a prison state. I am not scared of terrorists, but I am scared of what these egomaniacal lunatics i Washington are doing to your country and the rest of the world in order to make their bank accounts fatter. It's one of the few things in this world I find to be truly horrifying. These people would gladly sacrifice a billion lives to meet their goal, and that makes Hitler look like a saint in comparison. But then again, your president's grandfather was a nazi collaborator, so I shouldn't be surprised.

There is however, one theory you do not explore in your film. That is the tale of Edgar J. Hoover actually giving the mafia a green light on selling heroin to the black communities during the black panthers time in the sixties, as long as they did not sell it to white people. Which of course they had to do after seeing how much money there was to be made from this. I watched a documentary on this a while ago, and judging by the facts presented in that program there is little doubt in my mind that was where the worlds real drug-problem started! I do not know if you're even aware of this theory, so I thought I'd bring it to your attention .

OK, I will not take much more of your time now. I just want to thank you again for showing the world a piece of reality, rather than the lies that get pulled through our heads by government and mainstream media. People in the western world today are incredibly brainwashed, while believing themselves to be open- minded. That's probably the greatest trick in politics yet: Make the people believe they are free, because then they will not fight for freedom!

Sincerely,

Michael

Norway

Designer, webdesigner, musician, animator, programmer & proud pothead

Kevin,

I can't thank you enough for everything you have done to expose the hypocrisy of the war on drugs in America. I believe that The Last White Hope is a beacon of truth that all americans should be drawn to.

Since obtaining a copy of the film it has been my mission to show it to everyone I know or get to know. It sickens me to see just how easily the government and major corporations are able to spoon feed bullshit to the American people. People are sheep and it's killing our potential for a better America.

I'll show your film to a fresh young audience and more often than not they are just flabbergasted with the amount of corruption. Most importantly the film seems to be inspiring others, myself included, to think for themselves and question authority. Marijuana, a schedule 1 drug?! That alone is a joke on the American people, yet we never seem to stop and think about. Meanwhile the yuppies on Wall Street are laughing at us.

After some recent tooth pain, my orthodontist recommend Tylenol when needed. Rather than give my money to Tylenol, I bought a bag of marijuana from a friend who was collecting money to pay off his student loans. Since that bag my pain has faded away and my friend is at least somewhat closer to being debt free. I had a fun ride in my earlier 20's with harder drugs such as alcohol, tobacco, LSD, MDMA, cocaine and various pharmaceuticals. Although I've never landed myself in the hospital due to the consumption of these drugs I've decided that the recreational/medicinal use of marijuana is the only drug for me.

Your film has inspired me to refrain from giving any more of my hard earned money to the tobacco, alcohol, and pharmaceutical industries. If they want funding for their lies, they can get it from somewhere else. They're sure as hell not getting one red cent from me.

I sure hope that you are continuing your research and saying what needs to be said. If there are any other films, documents, books, or websites that you recommend in regards to the issue, I'd love to look into it.

Thanks again, Kevin.

Thanks for the truth.

- Joe

Melbourne, FL

Kevin et al,

I want to commend you on your excellent work on American Drug War.
I'm not anybody special, just a lover of film and, of course, a solid and true disciple of Bill, whose voice, railing against this calculated absurdity, could be heard throughout this great documentary.

I will most assuredly recommend this film to all of my friends and associates. Just wanted to say keep up the good work. You honor the memory of the Herder, and I would only encourage you to take up thy sheep hook and guide us toward the Promised Land through your art.

Admirably yours,

Jarrod

kevin,

i just wanted to tell you that you remind me of the saying "the truth will set you free"

god bless you brother i admire you and i have never said that to anyone in my life before. keep doing what you do. amen.

I'm so proud of this movie I could cry. I've have spoken so much about it that everyone is begging to see it in my Eng Comp class college class. I try to teach real life situations and encourage my students to write and read about the truth rather take a someone's word(bush, reagon, clinton, ect.). My to question to you is what is the difference between the educational dvds and the standard one.

Hit me back,

Marquise

Hello there!

I just watched your documentary and it BLEW MY MIND!

All the interviews and all of the information was very impressive. I live in Mississippi and to me, I feel it is the WORST place for me and my family to live. But, my mother is a Loan Officer for a Bank here in Pascagoula, and as you must know, we are suffering from lack of business. So, we are unable to move away from the coast and all of it's turmoil. We struggle everyday to keep our house out of foreclosure. But, that isn't why I e-mailed you. I contacted you in hopes of receiving a list of the songs that were featured on this film.

Magnificent music! Fantastic footage and interviews!

I will be purchasing the Documentary of AMERICA'S WAR ON DRUGS soon enough.

I do thank you for your time in responding.

Please ... next time you do another film, make sure you don't leave Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, and Georgia out of it. After Katrina, everything changed!

Thank you for creating such a film! I admire what you do.

Thankfully Yours,

Emily

I mean it when I say this is the best documentary I've ever seen. And, like I said, I'm a documentary junkie... I see A LOT!

I've seen several films on drugs and the "war" but never one that affected me to such a degree. Not only is your film well organized and passionate without shoving opinions down your viewers throat, it's sincere and intelligent, which are difficult levels to reach with a general audience.

And, maybe I'm not quite "general," but your film certainly makes me think so. I was raised in the Texas panhandle, where the horizon is endless and everything is a shade of brown. Some might liken an endless sky to open imagination, but when you see it every day, it becomes more a symbol of solitude. Nothing is out there. As far as you can possibly see, nothing.

I believe this had a great deal to do with the way we all turned out, there on the mean streets of white middle-class conservative America. Most of my friends I've known since Elementary school. Now they are recovering addicts or dead. And that's no exaggeration. I've had so many friends die as a result of their addictions, I'm surprised any of us survived. We weren't losers, either. We were the fringe, but also honor students and passionate community volunteers. A very dear friend and Valedictorian of her graduating class currently can't stay out of prison due to her trafficking connections with the Mexican Mafia.

I've never been involved with dangerous drugs, myself. And I always felt so sad for the friends I've lost to drugs, but ultimately blaming them for their own choices. We were all smart. We all had the same opportunities. And, most importantly, we all had each other. But I realize now that these things aren't always enough. Sometimes we're convinced we're above addiction or it's dangers. For Pete's sake, I've been smoking half my life! I'm no better than them! I'm an addict, too. How can I blame my life-long friends for not taking control of something I can't control within myself?

Not only as your film helped me to understand myself, my hometown, and my small section of society better, but it's also helped to give me strength. While I take full responsibility for risking myself to addiction, as we all do, I have a clearer understanding as to why I might take that gamble, again and again. Knowledge is power, as they say. I feel confident that with this knowledge, this anger, and this compassion, I can break my own addictions. And if I can, we all can. For the first time in my life, I believe I can. I have real hope. For all of us. Thank you.

Since seeing your film, I've talked endlessly about it. Everyone I know has been ordered to view it. And I'll have my own copy to lend as soon as possible. In the meantime, I have reposted it online, which is where I viewed your film myself. Already friends have said they've watched enough of it to be hooked. So, I hope you don't mind. If, however, you do, please let me know and I'll remove the link immediately. And don't worry, I sincerely feel I'll be waving your flag for a very long time. You've made a real impact on me and my thinking and I thank you.

Thank you.
Thank you.
Thank you.

Sincerely,

Clarissa

Dear Mr. Booth,

I am very interested in previewing "American Drug War" and perhaps writing about it.
Could you ask your staff to send a preview copy to me?
I do not subscribe to Showtime, so I am unable to access your documentary that way.

You and your colleagues may be interested in this short paper about the consequences for most businesses of our prohibition drug policy:

BCPS_ElevenWays.pdf

Thank you very much,

Sincerely,
Eric

"Humanitarianism consists in never sacrificing a human being to a purpose."

-- Albert Schweitzer, M.D. (1875-1965)

Hi Kevin, etc.

I just watched your documentary "American Drug War: Last White Hope." I want to thank you for such an amazing movie. Your examination of current drug policies in the United States, as well as their original creation, and the people involved really opened my eyes to our current situation. Somehow I always knew that first of all the war on drugs isn't working, and also that the war on drugs is just perpetuating itself and the drug problem in the united states, but until now I didn't have the factual accounts to back up my intuitive hit.

Thanks ever so, and keep up the excellent work!

Gelsey

Hey there!

My name is Nick and I just finished watching your film. I'm am speechless at how impacted I was after I watched it. The people that watched it with me were taken away by it also. I was wondering how to obtain the rights to show it here at a local theater here in my hometown Holland, MI. I feel that more people should see this, brought more into the spotlight in my conservative town.

Thanks!

nick

I am a T-12, L-1 paraplegic & just watched your movie. Yes I am a chronic pain patient.All I can say is why is a guy like you not running this country instead of the assholes we have now. I live 3 blocks below ground zero, watched close friends of mine die that day & watched in horror while this administration shoved another bullshit story about war on terror. Then went ahead & voted to spend billions on unjustified war (Iraq) they made up to line the pockets of their friends & contributors, yet millions of people rot in jail to keep the money flowing.

Thanks so much for your work.

Stephen

I've seen A.D.W. no less than six times on cable & just wanted to commend the amazingly thorough job that was done on the film.

I was particularly touched by the personal family aspect that was brilliantly woven in. As was the filmakers own battle with a prescribed addiction.

It helped give a very broad subject an intimate touch & brought the reality of the casualties of Americas failed policies home in a very real manner.

Like any worthwhile artist, Kevin (or You, I'm not sure who manages this page) put his heart out there for all to see & gain insight from his own private pain. That was a brave & effective choice!

Thanx for the incredible work!

I Wish U Much Peace, Love & Harmony~

Nelson

I already made a lot of people watch the 10 min clip. And I will definitely be having a sit down with as many as possible people I can get into my house. Want them to see the truth. I'm very dedicated to this documentary. I've known way too many people that died from cigarettes and alcoholism, and legal drugs. The worst was loosing my mom.
The doctors had her on DURAGESIC® (fentanyl transdermal system) CII Pain Patch. She died in her sleep. That was 6 years ago. Feels like it was just yesterday.
I also have had addiction to legal drugs.

All I have to say is thanks for this documentary and the truth!

I had to commend you on your wonderful film. I was in an auto accident and have been in extreme pain from injuries for 11 years now. The drs have recently put me on daily meds of OxyContin & Dilaudid. Have decided to stop them because I hate taking these since I also have Hep-c from blood transfusions. My therapist has now recommended Seboxone treatment. I saw it mentioned in your film.....I am afraid this will cause a new addiction. Any new info...
Congratulations on your most informative film.

Hey Kevin,
Great film, well done, the documentary was incredibly educational, I hope enough people see it to make a difference. Thank you for
the courage you showed in a time where it seems the government can do what ever it pleases to line there pockets. What a crazy world we
live in. Medical cannabis had given me a new lease on life after enduring 4 years on powerful narcotic medications, too many to mention. I live in British Columbia
and the cannabis and compassion I receive at the club I belong to should be a model at how effective cannabis can work as a medicine, we have over a 5,000
members and has been in operation for 10 years without a single incident with our police or city officials. We get great support from our community as well as
from local business. I wish every city could have such compassion clubs.

We're the "Vancouver Compassion Society". Check us out on line. Thanx again

Hello my name is Don and I watched your film American drug war on HBO it was a mind blowing experience , it made it clear to me that CIA drug dealing in the US inner cities is not urban myth. If our leader's are drug dealer's how can we punish our children for following in their footsteps. how can I get copy of American drug war?

How can we change this; how can I help. This insanity must stop. My web site is now Pencanarts.com, however there is nothing on it. My own thought is a constitutional amendment that prohibits legislatures from enacting laws against anything but theft and assault.

- Ed

Hi Kevin.
I just want to thank you for sharing your life with me and making "the last white hope" God bless you. I am so thankfull for being able to see your documentary. I have it on my DVR.

I just have to say WOW!! This is an amazing film that you have put together, I can't wait to show everyone I know. This is guaranteed to open a lot of peoples minds to a world that they never really think about if it doesn't directly affect them in a negative way. I live in Lansing Michigan, and medical marijuana will be on our ballots in November, so this will be the perfect motivation for reaching our goal. Once again great documentary, and I cant wait to enlighten every person I have ever known by letting them witness your masterpiece.

Sincerely,

Kenneth

Mr. Booth,

My name is Alex. I watched your film and was moved by it very much. I am a single Dad living in Miami struggling to survive. I fought in the first the Gulf War and have seen the ugly side of what this government can do. I was raised in Miami and have had my experieces with friends and myself that relate to your film closely. I have been a vicitim of the same circumstances as you have portrayed in your film. My mother passed away when I was young and I have been a single Dad struggling on my own for years now. I have PTSD, but I don't trust the VA to take care of me or my kids. My faith in any governement based establishment has dimished after many bad experiences. I really want to be heavily active in this fight. I would like to work with you closely, and be your spokesperson for Military and Hispanics as well. I have lots to tell and share.

Please feel free to contact me.

Sincerely,

Alex

Hello Kevin,

I am from Texas, and attended UT and lived in Austin for 15 years. I am very familiar with Alex Jones, but admittedly did not know who you were until seeing your movie. It was a great documentary and captured my thoughts on the Criminal Industrial Complex around the failure of the drug war in the US. I want to take a moment to thank you for your work. I will be recommending your documentary to all that I know.

Keep up the great work!

Best Regards,

Rob

Kevin:

There is more to your story. I advise you look into the Mafia, working with several government, and the Mormon church is involved as well. How do you think they have become one of the wealthiest religions in the world in such short time. "Americas Religion". How many of our soldiers are Mormon. I know family members who were involved in your story and were pawns just like Freeway Ricky. At least he still alive. Mine were not as fortunate. Your story has a lot of great information. Unfortunately the democratic campaign right now is to keep everybody's focus off what is really going on behind the close doors of our government and I strongly believe & know That Mc Cain will be our next President. No doubt. For many reasons. I advise you to look into the Trilateral Commission and the equal group out of Europe and the book on the New World Order if you haven't already. If you have not please beware as I know the information is available per The Library of Congress but also marks you for the government. I was for warned of this many years ago when time of your story was taking place. As unfortunate as it is 911 served several purposes. Our government needed to free up the drug money is only part of it. How ironic was it that our economy had more money for investment after 911 and was stronger than the Euro. But your story goes back before Nixon, your story starts during the assassination of John F. Kennedy, come on our generations are not that stupid, Lyndon B. Johnson is dead. Once again ironic that JFK was assassinated in Lyndon's home state and he became President, the Land of Oil Companies, drugs, and ect. Bill Gates/ Microsoft being considered of monopolizing the computer system due to the fact he that he had to become part of the t-commission. He gave in & had to help us become allies with India( the second largest population to China). There are so many documentaries to be made. I enjoyed yours. Cocaine Cowboys is good as well. Funny that it takes so long for truth. What truth. God Bless & I wish you the best on your endeavors.

Sincerely,

SJON

Hey Kevin

It so happens I work with inner city kids and teens through our Church, a lot of them have been affected one way or another by this evil drug war, whether it be Mom's on crack, Dad's in prison being warehoused for a nonviolent crime, or one of their siblings were maimed or killed. My wife and I are like surrogate parents to many of these children we have fed them washed their clothes so they would not be embarrassed going to school hungry, or dirty. But enough about us. I do not have a lot of money but I cannot afford not to buy this DVD. My purpose for wanting to purchase it is to show to other Church member's here at my Church, other Churches, community center's etc. I also intend to bride our teens into watching it. They (the teens) being of African American decent need to know what the future may hold if they make the wrong choices, prison, jail, or death. Finally being a retired State Correctional Officer after 17 year's of service I have seen first hand what the the Criminal Justice System is doing to African American, Latino, and poor white folk nonviolent offender's WAREHOUSING THEM FOR PROFIT. It's a damn shame African American's have come from Slavery to the prison cell so evil people can profit off their misery playing the game of whoever dies with the most money and material things wins!!!. Now I am getting mad I need to take walk or go to gym. God bless you keep up the good work. Oh by the way my wife and I was raised in the sixties need I say more?

Don and Michelle

Hi my name is Hari,

I am from Rochester New York. I just wanted to congratulate you on the documentary you produced and directed, "American Drug War". I made a couple of videos for youtube, one being about marijuana another being about the war in iraq. The user name i use is Hankbooth54, i came up with it before i heard of your documentary. I had to use that fake name because i could lose my job if i put my real name on it. I just wanted to congratulate you and tell you that you inspired me to make more of my little documentaries. Let me know if your coming out with new shit, peace.

Hari

Kevin,

I'm Rick Kent from Austin. Your movie America's Drug War had a tremendous impact on me. I'm glad I was able to find your email to let you know.

I'm a child of the lower middle class '70's drug culture when there was little to no meaning when it came to drugs. We just wanted to get real fucked up on downers and later heroin ..with zero purpose... as apposed to the '60's when they seemed to at least be trying to enlighten themselves.

I was to revisit the drug culture again with the advent of ecstasy in '85-85 at the age of 29 here in Austin. Although I wish I hadn't done it (it later led to cocaine) I had enough fun to say it was worth it... sort of.

Much of the X that came to Austin went through my hands via Dallas but that is another story in and of itself. For a brief period of my life people certainly made me feel like a rock star on 6th street. There was no waiting in lines at the door of any clubs! Hell even my girlfriend by herself was given the same carte blanche without me even being there.

And there were no felons going around stealing trying to feed an X habit either. No one cared.

After the law caught up with me (a good thing) I would end up like many in Austin doing very well in the tech biz (Dell). Life is good :)

.... but not before becoming a professional marathon cyclist and becoming one of the few people to cross the USA on a bike in less than 9 days.

If you were around in '85.... do you remember Stephanie's, Halls, "Club Iguana", etc?

I was really totally unaware to the extent of the Iran Contra connection to the LA crack epidemic. From the look of what you present in the movie the US government showed the way for how to best get a foothold on a big city crack market.

All the best to you and thank you again for a fine film :)

Kind regards,

Rick

Just want you to know I think it's a great piece of work. The investigative reporting is outstanding but I do find it a bit biased regarding THC use. And please tell Joe Rogan(sp) fear factor guy, that it is illegal to "drive under the influence" of weed, not to mention dangerous.

Being a Vietnam Era veteran, I'm very concerned about the direction our government has taken regarding drugs and the 'drug war.' I saw first-hand how our govt lied to us and decieved us then, and still is. It's gotten out of hand.

I'd also like to add that I've been clean and sober 7yrs and work as a Substance Abuse Counselor. I've worked in treatment centers and now work for a DUI program. Plan to educate as many people as possible how our govt keeps us 'sick, demoralized, and uneducated' then supplies us with legal and illegal drugs to keep us powerless. Enough is enough.

Power to the people!

Steve N

Recently I watched the film on Showtime. I am a Public Defender Investigator. I was so moved by this movie that I would like to show it to the entire State Public Defenders system in Colorado. Lawyers and Investigators both.

How would I get a copy of the film and permission to show the film at conference. If you are the person who made the film and that was your parents you were speaking about. It would be great to have you come along with your film to talk at our conference in September.

I'm going to stop now and please call me so we can talk.

Dear Kevin,

I am currently a student at Midlothian High school in Midlothian, Va and have been assigned a research paper on a controversial topic. Intrigued by your movie long before the assignment, this documentary furthermore instilled my beliefs in the corruption in U.S. systems and the society. One scene in particular on the new drug abuse treatments used in Holland was very eye opening. Treating heroin with heroin instead of opium and morphine in a controlled environment was something I had never heard of before. There was a particular discussion on a place where this type of treatment is done called The Rainbow. Looking for more research on that establishment has been hard along with research in general. If you have any websites or databases that could help me on this it would be most appreciated!

Sincerely,

Emily

Hi Kevin,

I would like to congratulate you for your nice work. It is very well done and very entertaining. I'm from Canada and it is not that bad over here concerning pot, especially in Quebec. It scares me to see the situation in the US with the coming of the NAU. I hope your DVD will wake up enough people to change this situation.

"The evidence is there, but in my opinion, the average person does NOT want to know, and even when confronted with it, will look the other way."

Svali

Hello,

My name is jesse. i want to start off by saying what a great production. i am glad its out there to get people to understand. it really got my attention when you stated you had a problem with pain meds. well here is my problem. i have been with my girlfriend for going on 5 years. before i met her i know she did some power lifting but i did not know how bad she was hurt. come to find out she has herniated discs as well. and her problem with pain meds has gotten real bad. i don't have a lot of money but a lot of love for her. do you have any recommendations for her. i don't want to loose her to the adw. I just want her to be pain free and not be in pain 24/7. any feed back i will take to heart.

Thank you very much

Jesse

I saw this movie on showtime and I just wanted to say its about time America knows the truth in our goverment today . I myself am Mexican American born in Harlingen Tx. and was very angry to hear that Mayor Laguardia had a group that did scientific research that was shut down by Anslinger. They used the Marijuana Act to get rid of Mexicans along the U.S. border people who help build america. Being Mexican myself that just makes me question if our government is really by the people and for the people. So if you have enough time to send a little info so that I also can be a part of the Movement.When I was seventeen years old I was charged with a misdemeanor weed charge under an ounce just a joint and walked away with 3 years of probation and over $ 1,500 dollars in court costs and not to mention $ 40 dollars a month for probation. But anyway enough about me I'm sure there are many other people just like me who've either been through it or will go through it unless we all as sympathizers come together. Just as decrimanalization is in Oregan how can one state be different from the others.

POWER TO THE POTSMOKER

SINCERLY,

DESI

Hey Brother,

How do you do? I just wanted to tell you that I purchased your dvd from the Sacred Cow Store. Alex actually said that they were cheaper on his site, and although I wanted to support you alone on this one, the price seemed to be the same. I have not watched the film or the extras yet. I can't wait! I saw a version about a year ago, probably around the first time you talked about Showtime airing it on Alex's show. It's funny how he'll bash pot smokers on a regular basis, and don't get me wrong I love Alex, but when you were on he said "Did you get your dad to smoke bud?" I guarantee you he has not referred to bud since or ever before. I am so happy you made this film and I thank you for all you put into it. I'd also like to offer condolences for those you have lost along the way. I'm still on Suboxone tapering slowly. I also still have a couple of questions for you, but right now just felt like taking a break from eugenics to thank you for putting such a great piece of media out there. I have to mention that Alex recently told the story of you, your wife, and he with the Bush twins and your balls to say "I've got a camera right now in my car!" I'd have done the same thing my brother, but I do believe Alex is right when he says it is a mafia mentality. Leave the criminals families alone even though it is our right and they may be complacent. The consequences could potentially be severe.

Take care Kevin,

Mike

Hey Kevin,

I am an activist- a registered medical marijuana organizer/grower/caretaker in Colorado.

On Feb. 22nd of this year I was raided by local authorities. When they found that I was growing legally, the DEA agent that they brought along had them violate my civil rights and kill all my medicinal miracles.

I still haven't been charged, but when and if the time comes and goes that they have to charge me, I will be creating quite a fuss over their abuse of my rights. And if they do charge me the outcome will be the same.

The reason I am writing you is I would like to take your film on the road and talk a little about how the drug war is getting out of hand.

If you haven't seen Run From the Cure (google it- it is a 7 part youtube video), you need to check it out. I have received permission to promote their film any way I can. If I could run your film, have a brief talk and then do RFtC, it would send a message that would be very powerful. I am an ex-prisoner of war in the war on drugs. I served time over 20 years ago in Washington State.

I have made Rick Simpson's hemp oil (what runfromthecure is about) and it is as powerful as the film portrays. It takes hemp medicine to a whole new level of healing. If you haven't seen the film yet, he pulls a guy of his death bed that they had given less than 24 hours to live. That is important information that needs to be brought into the picture in regards to medical marijuana. In my opinion, your film and RFtC coupled together would create an outrage that would be hard to contain.

Sound like fun? It does to an old anarchist like me.

Would you mind assisting me in assisting you to create a shift here?

Thanks for your consideration.

Oh yes and by the way- great job.
Yours is the most intensive look at the war on drugs I have sen to date.

Respectfully,

Aamann

Greetings,

I just caught your doc on Showtime, and even tried (I'm abroad and couldn't) to email them to ask them to air it again!

I moved out of the US 7+ yrs ago in part because of GW Bush. I thought Nixon and Ray-gum were idiots. Smoked pot for years and did "other things" but stopped smoking in 1990 (I'm 48). Anyway I wanted you to know how absolutely right on your doc is, and wish it was required viewing for all Americans and Europeans along w the rest of the world esp. government leaders.

Of course people laugh at me because I live in one of the best ganja producing countries in the world and don't smoke any more! But the coke biz has done terrible things to Jamaica. And some very peowerful people (as your doc suggests across the board) seem to be the continuing beneficiaries. Although we after 18 years have had a change of admin and this one seems less corrupt.

Anyway, I could say much more especially about the corporate money machine and conspiracies for truly world economic and resource domination (which will be lost read China), but for now BRAVO on the truth of your doc. Someday humanity will look back and call THIS the dark ages, for "our" wars and for "our" persecution of weed and other natural "drugs".

One love

Ellie

Dear Kevin,

I work for an organization in Colorado called the Colorado Criminal Justice Reform Coalition (www.ccjrc.org)and I want to thank you for making this movie. I wanted to add the trailer to my blog and ask you what the next steps were, if you know, in regards to follow up activist movements. I'd like to see if we can be involved.

We are closely affiliated with SAFER Colorado and the Drug Policy Alliance as well as Sensible Colorado. Let me know if there is anything I can do to publicize this phenomenal work of political art.

Thanks again

Pam

Hello,

My name is Michael and I just watched your movie American Drug War. I was highly impressed with your clear and thought out points that you discussed. I am writing you because I found that we have a lot in common. My father recently died of lung cancer and my older brother pretty much died from alcoholism. I have taken a lot of classes on sociology and I just wanted to share the fact that many of my professors and myself agree with your assessment of the drug war and I really hope you continue to bring to light all of the hypocrisies that are so evident in our political system. I will keep this short but again thank you for your wonderful movie I will recommend it to all my friends.

Michael

I am a retired Parole Agent with the California Department of Corrections (2001). I am also a retired Probation Officer with the Ventura County Corrections Services Agency (1998). I have just finished viewing your documentary on Showtime and felt obliged to write and congratulate you on your insightful, honest and courageous film which pegged the hypocrisy, futility and self serving character of the present "war on drugs" in a way that should grab the attention of the most cynical viewer. If there is anything I can ever do, to assist you in future like pursuits, please feel free to contact me.

Best Regards,

Steve

Mr Booth,

I just caught your drug war special on the small dish. I am a hippy from the 60's and while watching your film I thought to myself I could have written it well most of it. Your film wil make another dent in the corporate controlled money laundering goverment we are supporting. They are getting very heavy. What do you think about Obama? We can take this country back with the power of the internet! Anything I can do?

Fred

Kevin,

I just finished watching your two hour documentary on showtime. Great work my friend! I have pasted a link to a question someone asked a little over a year ago (02/16/07) on "Yahoo! Answers". This person asked "If marijuana is not really harmful, then why is it illegal". My response was chosen as the best answer for this question. When I saw your documentary tonight mentioning many if not all of the same reasons that I included in my answer on Yahoo!, I felt great joy in knowing these truth's are finally being publicized. Never give up!

TB

I just watched your doc and thought it was very good. I did a doc on some of the biggest "KingPins" in American history. I have 13 crazy stories, the first one is done. Did your doc get picked up at a film festival? Check out the trailer and contact me if interested in talking.

Thanks,

Jason

Thank you.....You educated me, my family and friends. I can not thank the Sacred Cow Productions team enough. Your film is very powerful and very well done. I thank you profusely for your time and effort in creating this film. I've never thanked anyone for a film but you have created something special and capturing.

Thank you Mr. Kevin Booth

Will

Hi Kevin,

My name is Erin. I just finished watching American Drug War on Showtime. You did a great job! It was very interesting and informative. I was hoping that you could elaborate on a small part of the film. In one part you mentioned that you became addicted to pain pills. You stated that you couldn't afford rehab. While searching the internet, you said you came across a new treatment that breaks addiction to opium. However, that seemed to be the end of the subject.

Please, I need you to share what you found with me. My sister-in-law's narcotic addiction is tearing apart my brother's family (and making us fear for my 4 year old nephew's safety and well-being). She already tried a private rehab center about a year ago, but obviously it didn't work. Can you please share with me the treatment that you found on the internet, the treatment that worked for you? I need your help, fast. Their marriage is in immediate danger.

Thank you so much for sharing your time, your story and your experienced-knowledge,

Erin

Hey Kevin!

Amazing! I just turned it on by accident on Showtime and am enthralled. Great movie!

Thanks!

Pamela

Just wanted to let you know that I really loved your documentary. I thought it was well thought out and really well done. Keep it up. We need filmmakers to help sort the truth out of the lies and we need truth to come from our media.

Thank you,

Kelly

Kevin,

EXCELLENT EXCELLENT DOCUMENTARY!!!!! I applaud you bringing the truth to the masses( or sheeple as I call them). Thank you so much for bringing to light the hypocrisy of the "war on drugs".

The segment you did on the opium trade in Afghanistan was what I have been preaching to others. Who would believe that strict Muslim fundamentalists would be using drugs to empower themselves. They are totally against drugs and its evils. Hopefully now in this election year people will wake up and make a change( even though we all know that the elections are rigged and the shadow government will never be displaced). I am an ex felon who served time in the Feds, 37 months, for a drug conviction. Under the mandatory minimum sentencing guidelines I had to plead guilty in order to receive the 37 months rather than the 57-71 months I was facing according to the guidelines.

I take full responsibility for my actions but punishments should fit the crime. For 2 ounces of crystal meth I think my sentence was harsh. Please continue to enlighten the public of how our government and the special interest groups are making tons of money by warehousing our citizens. I have seen this first hand.

Unicor is making millions by using prison labor, paying $0.12 cents an hour for the labor. There is one thing I was hoping you may know the answer to and that is when I was locked down I heard that Barbara Bush's family owns the company that supplies all the commissaries in the BOP with the items sold to inmates. True? Once again keep bringing the truth to the light and hopefully one day a true change will come.

Richard

First off, I want to thank you for having the guts to make this film. The true honesty, and factual information had me glued to the television. I've always wondered how those washington guys always managed to stay out of jail in the 80's,and never be held responsible for their horrific deeds to mankind. Your film was educational as well,serving as a great learning tool for our youth. Thank you Kevin,for opening up the minds and hearts of all americans with your film.

Derek

Kevin -

I just watched American Drug War on Showtime and have to say it was fantastic! I am in post on a doc of my own that would be of great interest to you. It touches upon the Drug War but focuses on the concept of "Harm Reduction". I am sure you are aware of this after shooting your doc. I come from the scripted feature background but stumbled upon this story and had to jump on it. I am really lacking the distribution contacts for documentaries and was wondering if it is possible to get you on board to assist as a producer if you like my film. Hope to hear from you. Once again, I loved the documentary. After going through my shoot and meeting similar people I can really appreciate what you accomplished.

Regards,

Ryan

Hello Kevin,

I am watching your film on Showtime as we speak and I wanted to contact you.

I teach sociology at UCSB and this is a great teaching tool. It is very well done, accessible and engaging and I think it will be for my students.

I just wanted to thank you for making such a necessary movie. I have gone to Sacred cow to obtain a copy and look forward to using it.

Thanks again,

Nathaniel

That was one of the best specials not only on drugs but of any documentary I have ever seen. As a former cop in the military and now a user of marijuana and other substances from my past, I have lived on both sides of the fence. Thank you for this entertaining and informative piece. My condolences for all your losses.

Chuck

Ft. Lauderdale

Kevin,

I doubt you'll even receive this message, but hopefully someone does...who cares.

I watched your documentary last night on Showtime and I have to commend you on such a brilliant, honest piece. It was both a breath of fresh air and a great disappointment for me to be watching it. You portrayed, in my opionion, a very honest and accurate view on this crazy "War on Drugs" that our country is faced with. I pray that it opens the eyes and mind of at least ONE single ignorant American trapped in the lies our government feeds us.

It was a breath of fresh air to me because I am one of those junkies who is caught up in the system. Between probation, incarceration, and long term-forced treatment I've been labeled as a felon, a junkie, and not a member of society. Yes, I have convictions for the possession of controlled dangerous substances, but I'm not violent and I don't steal and i don't sell drugs. I'm someone who works hard, and likes to play hard. I'm forced to attend treatment, go to court every week, report to a po every day and visit once a week,and go to na or aa meetings because the government tells me I am wrong and the government tells me this is what I have to do. If I don't, I go to jail. It's a wonderful program known as Drug Court located here in Ocean County, NJ.

It was also very disappointing to watch because I truly feel like such a victim to our society. I feel like my freedom and my rights were taken from me because of things I chose to do behind close doors. Unfortunately I have to buy their drugs on their market and deal with their police and courts, and pay their consequences. I just have such a feeling of unrest about the whole situation. I feel so disconnected from our country because of it. I can't get a job because I'm a felon now, even though I'm bright and skilled.

Anyway, I won't rant anymore. I just want to thank you for what you did. It really kind of lifted a little weight off my shoulders because I know I'm not alone. Please keep spreading your message. I am fully aware that drugs can be bad and they can ruin peoples lives, but treatment should be up to that person, and should be treated as a medical problem, not forced incarceration... I just lost a friend last week to an overdose. Perhaps another live LOST because of the war and lack of knowing what you're truly getting...

Take care, and if it matters, your documentary definitely made a difference in my life. Keep doing what you're doing, that way there's a small glimmer of hope for some of us.

- Jason

Kevin, I just watched your American Drug War documentary for the 2nd time. My husband watched too. We have a vested interest in this topic because we are the parents of 24 year old twin heroin addicts. I could write a book, that's no joke, if interested in my story please contact me.

Sharon

Hi Kevin,

Just caught your film tonight on Showtime and found it quite disturbing yet I'm thrilled by your efforts to open up a conversation about government's social-economic impact on our country.

I am especially interested in those Iran-Contra folks near the end of the film who hold positions in government today. Sadly, the only one I recall and immedialtely recognize is Mr .Gates. My political forum friends and I have the attention span of a 2-year old so it would be a good history lesson for us to google all these guys and re-visit their outstanding contributions to America. Hopefully we can find one.

Keep up the good work and if you're ever interested in my perspective on the wacky child adoption craze going on in our great land, please let me know.

Regards,

Randy

That is SO GREAT! Congrats Kevin!! I knew this woudl be going FAR the first time I saw it!! I am a HUGE supporter of your film!! When will it air on Show time in total?

Hope all is great with you!!

Peace and Love

Holly

Dear Mr. Kevin Booth,

Thank you for your hard work, dedication, for putting your-self in harms way, and your compasion to tell a story long over due. There are thousands of people worse off than me with addiction, poverty, AIDS and Cancer, but as a human living with a cronic illness, Crohn's Disease, who is helped tremendously by canibus for pain and mental anquish, I can't thank you enough for sticking your neck out on the line for us all.

Will you be offering this on DVD for purchase in the near future. Everyone I know needs to see this film... sorry, everyone in this country needs to see this film. I pray some day we will be able to have real change. You are a huge step in making that happen, if it can happen.

Sincerely,

Spencer

This was definitely the best documentary I have ever watched. I couldn't take my eyes off it. Being only 19 years old, I have been asking myself since I was 15 when I started using pot. I've smoked pot since I was 15 years old. I got in trouble with alcohol when I was 18 and thats the only trouble that has been thrown my way is because of the "legal" drug. Why is alcohol legal and causing so many death's from drinking and driving, to natural deaths from alcohol. I know this was all covered in your documentary but there are so many points about this corrupt government that I didn't know until watching. Thank you so much for filling me in on the actual games and hate the government actually have against its citizens, if thats what we are actually called.

Anonymous

Kevin,

I just want to say that I just caught your movie, "American Drug War" and I find it to be one of the best drug documentaries I have ever seen. I think you showed a clear picture of that world. I extremely enjoyed the fact that you mentioned Iran Contra Affair. I know from talking to the youth today, that even in school, it is not taught anymore. I was lucky to be 15 at the time this was going on and had a very progressive teacher teach us what was going on at that time. Thank you so much for that film and I am sure your friend Bill would be very proud of you as I am for your truth.

Thanks

Jason

Mr. Booth

Your documentary touched me deeply. I lost my grandfather to alcohol in 1990 and then My father in '99. I myself have battled drug addiction. Perhaps more accurately stated, I battle drug addiction every day. I smoked my first joint at 12 and became an avid smoker at about 16. Now I refuse to accept that Marijuana is a gateway drug, but the realization that I was bombarded with propaganda did inspire me to "experiment" with other drugs. I have been addicted to cocaine, and methamphetamine. I will not lie to you, I had a lot of fun on drugs. I still smoke pot regularly, and I do occasionally fall off the speed-free wagon. I have never believed that legalization of drugs is a solution, but a real restructuring of our drug policy is a must.

Decriminalization is a fair start for some, but not all. Some drugs should not be available, but locking up the addicts just because they use is insanity. In short I want to say thank you.Thank you for having the guts to send this message in this day and age. Thank you for opening my eyes to some things I didn't know. Thank you for giving me not just one resource, but the launching pad to find so many more to help me share the truth with my staunch right wing family. If nothing else it will make for far more interesting arguments during holiday gatherings.

A freedom starved American

~Joe

Kevin I live in a small town in central Texas. I'am 53 years old and have been using Oxycontin for over 12 years. I did not know how addictive it really was until I tried to stop. I never had any trouble quiting the other pain killers. I have had 34 major operations , cancer , struck by lightning,bitten by a rattle snake, stabbed and shot. I did have chronic pain for a while. I tried to get the doctors to help me quit so I could see if I really still hurt that much. They always told me no that I needed to take it because with that many surgeries you have a lot of scar tissue and it causes pain.

I could not see how bad I was until my wife started to leave and I have spent all my money buy this drug. I could not work because all you think about is where will I find it and when can I get there. They had me taking Norco 10/325 for break through pain up to 10 a day. This did one thing and that was it kept me from going in to DT's. You will do almost anything to get this stuff. I have sold off everything of value and gone from a million dollars plus to 0.

What really makes me made is that they lied about how addictive it really is. The doctor told me it was better because I only had to take it 3 times a day instead of every 3 or 4 hours. They said it was long lasting and was not as addictive as the other drugs. I have had about every drug they make put in me during all these surgeries. I was in the hospital for about 14 days with my first cancer operation and they gave me morphine for 7 days in ICU . These were big doses and then they gave it to me on the floor for the remainder of my stay. I had no trouble getting off and have even used the duregesic patch. I think it is Fentynal or a stronger version of morphine.

I finally decided to get off so I went to a doctor that does addiction problems. He put me on Suboxone and that works great. I have been on it for about 12 months and it does help a little with pain. I still have days that my mind is telling me to take Oxycontin. They can't tell me how long this will last because they have never had anyone that has been using it for this long. I nearly got my gun and went looking for those guys when I heard they admitted they lied about how addictive Oxycontin really is. I have also heard from some drug reps that they also gave the doctors a 100 dollar kick back for each script they wrote. Where was our government when this drug got approved to use. They hve sold us down the tube and could care less about John Q Public. You will have the one agent or cop that wants to put a feather in his cap and he will bust people for sell. I could not believe how easy it was to buy on the streets. Then I started seeing two doctors getting it nad they still never came to see why I was getting so much. I really think someone got a big pay off to look the other way.

I did find out about the victims fund and have been trying to find out what they will pay. I still don't know how that will work and I found out that the state of Texas got 500,000.00 I wondered what for. I called the attorney generals office and ask who was addicted to it. They told me that this is to stop the illegal sale in the state. Well they still seel it and you can still buy it on the corner. I really think it is a good pill but it needs to be for people that will die in a few years. The really bad part is I have not needed anything for pain. Yes I hurt but I can handle it and work. I could not work for anyone when I was on it because if something happened they would have to pay. I agree that would be like hiring a drunk to be a truck driver. You know he will have a wreck you just don't know when.

We have a real problem and I don't think anyone cares. They want to build more jails and put people in prision. This is not the answer. My son was on Meth for a couple of years and he had no problem quiting when he wanted. He told me he was ready to quit and he did. I have been writing the people in Washington about the oxycontin lies to try to get them to check it out but there aren't any football or baseball heroes using. If it is not some big shot like Lance Armstrong they don't want to look at it. I was really mad when I went back to my pain doctor and told him I was on Suboxone. They have had it for 3 years but they don't like the side effects so they don't tell people about it. They said it makes some people have a headache and sick at your stomach for a while. I told them that probably every person they have on Oxycontin is addicted and they said they did not think so. I also told them I had people from their office try to sell me their pills and they did not believe me.

I don't know how to get it done but I want to sue the pants off the Oxycontin people. They said three doctors made it and I wonder how they would feel if their family members were hooked. They probably wouldn't care as long as they made a lot of money. I seperated my righyt shoulder about a month ago and it has been hurting bad. I had some old Norco and I took 7 of them. I waited and it did nothing. When I went to the doctor they told me that I had burned out all my recptors and it would never work again. What will I do if something big really happens to me or I have to have this shoulder fixed.
Ok I will shut up I saw your show and need to vent. Hope you are and yours are well.

Anonymous

Mr. Booth:

A couple of nights ago I had an opportunity to watch your documentary with regards to America's "War on Drugs" and although I had known (peripherally) about many of the claims made in your film, I really had not realized the extent of CIA and government complicity in this self made war.

Watching your film made me realize that right now, our government is likely involved in a similar situation as the Iran-Contra scandal of the 1980's. As you may know, a couple of weeks ago a small province named Kosovo unilaterally declared independence from Serbia. This declaration was quickly recognized by several countries, including the United States and Afghanistan.

Prior to 1999, the CIA had classified a group known as the "KLA" (Kosovo Liberation Army), as a terrorist organization, but quietly removed them from the terror list, prior to a 78 day bombing campaign against Serbia. After that bombing campaign, the United Nations and NATO took control of Kosovo and the former terrorist organization was converted to the newly named "Kosovo Protection Corps". While Kosovo has long been a center for the heroin drug trade in Europe, since 1999 it became the world epicenter for the heroin trade, all under the watchful eye of the United States and many European nations.

In March of 2000, Guardian reporter Maggie O'Kane reported that Kosovo had become the focal point of 40% of the world's heroin traffic, most of which was headed to western Europe and America. In fact, Kosovo became known as a "smugglers paradise" and during the time it was a "UN Protectorate" it expanded as ground zero for heroin distribution. However, Kosovo still remained a part of Serbia, who's government would not bend to the whim of the west and remained an obstacle to unfettered heroin trafficking.

As I watched your documentary, I started to see striking similarities between the scandals of the eighties with modern day Kosovo. The American government has been spoon feeding the mass media and general public grandiose statements of genocide and mass murder in Kosovo, none of which has ever been substantiated but has provided a great distraction for the reality on the ground. Moreover, while most international legal scholars agree upon the illegality of Kosovo's unilateral declaration of independence, the government of the United States has accepted it as a fait accompli with virtually no tangible scrutiny or opposition at home. When was the last time you can recall both Republicans and Democrats agreeing on an issue with virtually NO dissent in Congress?

Along with the declaration came immediate recognition from Afghanistan, the world's number one exporter of heroin. With the supplier firmly in American hands and under American control (Afghanistan), the missing link for complete American control was the middle man/distributor. By recognizing Kosovo's independence America has virtually created a proxy government in Kosovo's capital (Pristina), whose leader (Hashim Thaci) is an indicted war criminal. Who better to serve the interest of the drug runners than a man who has long standing ties to the KLA and organized crimes?

Ultimately, the point of this email is that you might consider what I have written here and contemplate a follow up documentary or some type of investigation. I'm sure at the beginning of the CIA drug running investigation, most would have thought CIA complicity impossible but now see the reality. I have no doubt that a similar investigation into Kosovo independence would yield similar results.

If you have any questions regarding this matter, please feel free to contact me at this email address. Thank you for your time.

Very truly yours,

Slavko

I saw the premiere of American Drug War on Showtime Tuesday night and i wanted to thank you for opening my eyes. Since the making of the The Matrix I felt like that was what was going on with us as a society. It has motivated me to start speaking out about this.

Thank you!

Anonymous

Kevin!

My boyfriend and I just sat with our mouths open watching your fantastic doc! The best one I have ever seen on the subject. I couldn't believe when your name popped up at the end! I cheered! As I am a HUGE Bill Hicks fan. Congrats! You have done some fab work! Cheers from NYC to Austin!

Kristen

Finally got to see "American Drug War" on Showtime. Amazing work! The only thing I don't care for is the overwelming sense of helplessness.

Keep up the good work,

Scott

I AM A RETIRED POLICE OFFICER WHO HAS BEN SAYING THIS FOR YEARS. EVERYONE THOUGHT I WAS A FANATIC. IT SAYS IN THE BIBLKE THAT GOD PLACE PLANTS ON THE EARTH TO HELP PEOPLE WITH PAIN. GOD , OBVIOUSLY MUST HAVE PLACED MARIJUANA AND OPIUM POPPIES HERE AS WELL AS MANY OTHERS.

THIS WAS WELL DONE AND NEEDS MUCH BROADER CIRCULATION. IT IS THE ABSOLUTE TRUTH. I AM SORRY TO SAY THAT I WAS UNAWARE OF THE POLITIC SIDE OF SOME OF IT AND I HAVE CHANGED THAT THIS VERY INSTANT! I AM NO LONGER A REPUBLICAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!

YOU AND MR BOOTH HAVE DONE A GREAT SERVICE TO THE PEOPLE OF THIS COUNTRY, WHO ARE THE OWNERS OF IT AND NOT THESE ENTITIES. THE GOVERNMENT HAS NO RIGHT TELLING ANYONE WHAT THEY CAN INGEST!!!!!!

STEVE

THE TRUTH IS ALWAYS THE TRUTH!!!!!!!

Louisville, KY

I just finished watching the special on Showtime. There is a song which runs in the ending credits, and I couldn't catch who wrote it or what the song's title was. I featured some GW sound bytes. Any help locating the writer's name and song title would be greatly appreciated.

Let the guys at SacredCow know, that was top notch work. My friends and I have been taking a very proactive approach to this issue, and really appreciate, unbiased journalism on the matter.

Thanks in advance.

James

Kevin,

I just watched American Drug War on HBO, and it was absolutely amazing. It's glad to see that not everyone is blind! Thank you Mr. Booth! I'm not a religious person, but I truly believe you and your work are a gift from god. And thank everyone involved in this ingenius documentary. I wish every person in america could see this, and open their eyes to reality. Thanks times a million!

~Dante

Kevin,

Congratulations on the documentary, I saw it last night in Showtime by accident as I was browsing for something to watch. Great job! Exactly along the line where I believe the issue should be addressed, though everyone tells me it is an impossible political task to change the current drug prohibition paradigm. Getting to see Judge James P. Gray was great also, I read his book a while back, however, haven't been able to find an address where to send him a copy of my book A Silent Nightmare: The bottom line and the challenge of illicit drugs. I have your postal address and will be sending you a copy of my book this week, could you provide me a postal address for Judge Gray?

I have ordered three copies of the DVD, one for my personal use, one for the president of Mexico, I expect to meet with him in early May, and a third one as a reserve for the "right person" in the US government. The three leading US presidential candidates, Obama, Clinton and McCain, have acknowledged receipt to my book (their staff has over their signature) though I doubt if they have read it. I personally hand delivered it to the president of Mexico last May and had an hour long one on one meeting with him on the subject. He is in a tough spot, however, he was willing to share his personal insights with me. We have been friends for over twenty years.

I am attaching a pdf copy of my book, however, you will be getting a printed copy soon. If you are ever in the Washington, DC area in the near future I would love the opportunity to meet with you personally.

Good luck with the documentary.

Sergio

Hey, Kevin. I just got finished watching your documentary on Showtime. I'm just emailing to let you know that I am truly inspired by this. It has completely changed the way that I look at my drug use, and the drug use of others. You have opened up a whole new way of thinking for me, and I just wanted to let you know how much I truly appreciate it.

Thank you,

Adam

Thank you for making this documentary, I am going to tell everyone I know about it. America needs to see this. You are helping us make the first steps towards a desperatley needed change. I just recently was pulled over for illegal window tinting, in charlotte, North Carolina. The officer searched my vehicle and found about a gram of marijuana, a glass bowl, and a grinder. Thankfully, in North Carolina, marijuana is not a schedule I drug like it is federally, it classified schedule 6. I recieved three citations and was required to take 15 hours of class in a court appointed drug education class (which cost me $150). Although I am very happy that I was not arrested, I found that my punishment in the long run was financial (about $700 in the end). Out of the 15 hours of class, about 1 hour was dedicated to marijuana, 1 hour was dedicated to alcohol and the other classes covered inhalents,tobbacco, cocaine, heroine, steroids, pcp, and a whole 4 hours on STD's (with a very graphic and unnecisarry video). The only people elligable for this drug ed. class are those who were caught with marijuana under a half ounce, underaged drinking, or DWI's. There was at least 40 people in each of my classes, thats a lot of money going. . . somewhere. Anyways, your movie helped me realize that there is hope for a better system and that we are the ones to bring it to the light.

Peace, Love, & Respect

-Stephen

Dear Mr. Booth,

I caught your documentary, AMERICAN DRUG WAR, on Showtime last week and wanted to congratulate you on your accomplishment.

I found your film of particular interest, because of it's correlations with a film I just finished focusing on one man's drug-laden experience in Afghanistan over the past 40 years. Beginning with Afghanistan as a stop on the Hash Trail in 1967, we follow the history of drug-use in Afghanistan culminating in an interview with an opium grower in 2002.

Sincerely,

Tonya

congrats! i am so happy that this film got into some light like this. when i saw it at slff i hoped that everyone would have a chance to see it and now a big chunk can!

Hugs Valerie

It was pure greatness. It's too bad America is full of people like our parents who have never smoked marijuana, and who refuse to question why a law is a law. We need more documentaries like yours to at least attempt to bring light to the fact that the drug war is a sham. Good work.

Cole

Kevin,

I have just watched your movie for the first time, and I must say I am truly touched. I want to support this film and movement in anyway possible.

I am the singer in a very successful truly independent american reggae band that tours nationally and internationally with steel pulse, the wailers, clutch and many more pro-marijauna bands. We are very excited to spread the word in any way we can, and kudos for such a powerful film.

We just returned from kinsgston jamaica making a record consisting of very similar themes to the movie.

Let me know how lionize can become a more active supporter of your film.

-nate

Kevin,

Im an International Relations Major here in Miami Florida, I saw clips of your movie and an intreview on google by Alex Jones with you.

I am writing a 35 page paper on the Iran-Contra Affair and found your documentary extremely interesting and heard about your sequel about the CIA..

Well, I was wondering about some sources you got from the first documentary about the operatives of the CIA Oliver North and central America.. Contact me and stay in touch

Sincereley,

Jose

Hey Kevin,

I saw your documentary today and I thought it was amazing. I was just curious though, who wrote that one book thought connected Ricky Ross to the CIA? I am really interested in reading it, but i cannot remember who wrote it.

thanks!

Haylei

I watched the documentary on showtime on demand, after seeing it i quickly called everyone that i know advising them to watch it as well, i am willing to do whatever in order to help this movement.... this show needs to be on regular channels everywhere...

Anonymous

Mr. Booth,

This weekend I was fortunate enough to see your film, "American Drug War", on the Showtime network.

It was, in a word, fantastic. I felt compelled to write to you, and express my admiration for your effort. I have always been skeptical of the efficacy of our "War on Drugs" , and your film did a superb job of spelling out the hypocrisy of the effort.

Thank you for making it.

Sincerely,

Brian

Let me first off ad say thank you for taking the time and producing a realistic documentery about what is really going on around this forsaken country, Its just another coruption to add to the long list of this countries history.

Ill tell you now that ive shown this video to over 50 people and the same remake is made....
" HOLY SHIT" and "FUCK OUR GOVERNMENT"

But im glad to see more and more is being contributed to the up and coming revolution that will soon open the mankinds eyes in this disgusting political power to control us like sheep.

thanks again mate,

cheers,

Jonathan

Just saw your movie and it was fantastic! Thanks for making me take a good hard look at the people running our country, and myself for believing the garbage shoved down my throat for years.

Milton

Kevin,

I just watched "American Drug War" on Showtime... awesome documentary! Congratulations. I think you did an amazing job demonstrating the corporate money and politics behind the epidemic in this country - the "war" on drugs is not working. Thanks for putting the film together. You did an incredible job!

I am a history professor and I would be absolutely thrilled to have you on campus some time for a showing of the film (if possible) - I don't know how that would work since the film has been released? Anyway, if you could let me know your availability I would really appreciate it. Our student body is a bit conservative - they could use a good dose of reality.

Sincerely,

Rebecca

Kevin

Congratulations on making such a necessary and wonderful film.

My name is Cullin O'Brien, Esq. I am a public defender in Broward County, Florida. (Ft. Lauderdale area). I have a series of problematic drug cases and I would like to present your movie to the Judge and/or to the jury (if I can successfully argue that the jury is allowed). I don't see any full copies of your movie on-line. All I have seen are clips, including the ones interspersed with your interview with Alex Jones. How do I get a copy of your film?

Attached is the most recent motion I have filed in one of the cases. Basically, the police are selling cocaine and arresting people for buying it, however. The facts are not like a traditional sting and, more importantly, the police and prosecutors have not allowed me to know who is responsible for packaging the cocaine. The devil is in the detail and the jury should be entitled to know the details.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

Cullin

Good day Kevin,

I was traveling abroad and caught most of your movie on American drug war...I must say I was very interested...unfortunately I can't find it anywhere in Canada...I would love to see the entire film...can you let me know if and where it's available in Canada.

Much appreciated,

Mylene

Great film, I see Dark Alliance as the book of the century and your film should be film of the century. Please advise when your film will be offered for purchase.

Loved the work. Keep it up.

Lose not courage, lose not faith, go forward.

Marcus

Kevin,

Great documentary!

I am a alcohol and drug counselor.

Your movie put together nearly everything I have been saying about the phony War on Drugs in America for too many years now.

I have adopted a socio-cultural understanding of drug use and cure, which you reference at the end of your documentary.

The two largest Federally licensed churches in Brazil, the Santo Daime and the UDV have proven oven many years
that ayahuasca tea successfully treats addiction.

Dr Deborah Mash and many other respected scientists have researched the successful use of extracts of the Africa herb
Tabernanthe iboga in treating addiction.

To add further insult to injury, I had read many years ago that noscapine has successfully treated all hard tumors it has been tested on since the 1960's.

500,000 die every year of cancer in the USA.

How many must die before we admit a positive use for the opium poppy?

More insanity: Dogs can smell developing cancer on humans before ANY man made diagnostic can!

Dogs are another natural cure out society refuses to use to save lives of 500,000 Americans, because it does not fit our "business model"

Take care,

Joe

I had to commend you on your wonderful film. I was in an auto accident and have been in extreme pain from injuries for 11 years now. The drs have recently put me on daily meds of OxyContin & Dilaudid. Have decided to stop them because I hate taking these since I also have Hep-c from blood transfusions. My therapist has now recommended Seboxone treatment. I saw it mentioned in your film.....I am afraid this will cause a new addiction. Any new info....again Congratulations on your most informative film.

diana

The best documentary of all time, I've have been telling everybody I know that this is a must see, and how blown away they will be once they see this dvd.
Great job. Nothing but the truth.

Matt

Your film is truly a masterpiece. Thanks for believing in my ability to take the message to the streets. It was and will continue to be an honor.

Stan

Kevin:

I believe every word you spoke in this film. It all makes perfect sense. The drugs that are 'legal' are so dangerous compared to what nature offers. Pharmaceutical companies are constantly trying to mimic nature, when nature lies at our feet. I have also had many deaths in my family at the hand of 'legal' drugs. History tells us repeatedly it's always about power and money.
When we imprison non-violent drug offenders we turn them into violent offenders. From what I've seen prison, is a fight or die situation.

I am disgusted with the monster we call our prison system. The prisons are full and the streets are more dangerous than ever. How does that make an ounce of sense?

None of our drug policies make an ounce of sense unless you follow the money!

Great film and moving documentary. You more than support you suppositions! I'm telling everyone I know about your film.
Where do I sign up?

Pamela

I watched It last night!!! I LOVED it. Why is this not showing in major theaters? Do you realize if you marketed this right, nation wide you could blow the lid off this!!! This blows Michael Moore out of the water!!! You need to get this to Obama.... How Can we get it in major theaters???? I can sell ice to an Eskimo let me know how I can help.

Great Job and thank you,

Dariusz

Great Documentary...I am watching it again to take notes...You really spelled this out in the most concise way. So many things have come full circle for me...You rounded off so many things for me...Do you still have distribution via Ryko? I would love to distribute your productions and I would love to make the Freeway Rick movie when he gets out 2012....Regardless, This is brilliant...I am watching this for the second time so I can spread the word in the proper way....Have you seen the Corporation? That is a brilliant doc too...This ADW is now one of my fav's....Thanks

Don

Kevin

I am 42 years old and sat and watched the American Drug War documentary with my 72 year old mother. When the sheriff in Arizona was saying you have to step over bodies in Amsterdam, all my mother kept saying is "That is bullshit. Complete bullshit. I have been to Amsterdam and it's a beautiful place, with low crime rate and friendly people." She told me she was going to bring home some "special lollipops" from, but was afraid Customs would search her luggage.

My father has been battling severe alcoholism since 2000 and has been hospitalized several times in the past 8 years. He almost died the first time he went through detox in the hospital. He had renal failure, etc. He spent 30 days there and had to learn how to feed himself, walk and talk all over again. He is also 72 years old. I keep telling him if he wants to relax he should smoke a joint. You can imagine his reaction to that comment. He has been sober now for 2 months, but has end stage liver disease. His doctor told him the next drink he takes could kill him. I know you can appreciate the frustration and pain of watching someone suffer from that disease. The first time he detoxed, I couldn't believe my eyes. It was the saddest thing I have ever watched! The doctor said alcohol withdrawal can be worse than heroin withdrawal.

I have done my fair share of recreational drugs and never experienced any of the health problems that my father suffers. All my friends smoke pot. They range from doctors and lawyers to "blue collar" workers. None of them ever went through the detox process for smoking; and they have been smoking for 20-30 years. All are respectable people, with families, jobs, and homes. They pay their taxes and go to work every day. On the flip side, I also have some friends with severe back problems. They became addicted to Oxycontin and other pain pills prescribed by their physicians. Unfortunately, a few of them became addicted to heroin when their doctors suddenly stopped their pain medications.

Like many big corporations, the company I work for conducts random drug testing. I am COMPLETELY against that. If someone smokes a joint after work or on the weekends that is their business. It isn't going to affect their performance the next day at work. I firmly believe that what people do in their own homes is their business. NOT THE GOVERNMENT!!! As long as they are not putting anyone else in jeopardy or committing violent acts, there is "no harm, no foul." Next the government will want to come into our bedrooms. In some states they already do by outlawing sodomy.

It's an atrocity what the people with power and money do. And millions put their trust in them.

I want to thank you for taking the time to bring this abuse of power to light. If there is anything I can do to help further the cause, please let me know.

God Bless and Take Care.

Sharon

p.s. I wouldn't be surprised if "Big Brother" is monitoring the e-mails you receive.

I just saw your fantastic documentary on Showtime in my hotel room. As a closeted gay man who was raised naive' and Republican, after seeing your amazing documentary I now have one more reason to move to Amsterdam besides the 16-year old boys.

Greg

I just watched your documentary "American Drug War: The Last White Hope". I enjoyed it and agree with points made about legalization and decriminalization of the drugs in the USA, and that The Drug War has been an abject failure from the start. One quip, though. Near the end you show Gen. Michael Hayden's picture with the caption:

Iran-Contra Head of NSA
G.W. Bush / Director of CIA

To me this is saying that Gen. Hayden was the NSA Director during the Iran Contra scandal, but this is incorrect. His tenure as director there was from 1999 to 2005. Maybe I'm reading your caption incorrectly, but even if that is the case, I think it's a mistake that many others will make. For the sake of keeping your vital message untainted by needless errors, this should be reviewed and corrected to accurately reflect the role Gen. Hayden may or may not have had in the Iran Contra affair along with his positions at the top of this country's intelligence community.

Thanks for your time.

Brian

Hi Kevin,

I am a student at West Chester University studying history with a minor in political science. This isn't fan mail or blind admiration though I do believe your documentary was quite sobering. My question to you is if there is a transcript of your documentary available anywhere?

I am a junior and I have begun to discuss my graduation project with my advisers. I plan on writing a research paper detailing the Nixon/Reagan/Bush war on terror and drugs and the almost identical paradigms employed in their execution. Starting with Nixon's war profiteering in Vietnam and false-flag Gulf of Tonkin operation to the Reagan and Bush media blitz about the war on drugs which, as your documentary so eloquently showed, is nothing more than a profiteering scheme for Corporations and stockholders. And finally leading to the current media blitz regarding the war on terror and how blindly the American people buy into the hype or al-queda and global terrorism when in fact we Americans are terrorizing the world not vice-versa.

Any advice you have is always welcome. I know you have absolutely no incentive to reply, but I would hope you of all people would understand my stance and goal of documenting the loss of the American way and American Dream.

Sincerely,

Yuriy

Hey Kevin,

So I saw your movie a couple weeks ago via bit torrent, I'm sorry its up there already (noticed said for people to wait on that) but after watching it I pre-ordered a copy for myself.

However I was recently watching Season 2 of Penn & Teller's show "Bull Shit" and they had their so called "hippie segment" as described the bull shit of the war of on drugs. Throughout watching the episode (ep.4) I noticed some similarities in the people interviewed and information exposed and I was wondering if you have seen the episode or it influenced the movie at all (or visa versa if they received information from you)

Just curious about this, and it was a delightful surprise when pre-ordering the DVD to see all of the Bill Hicks content available on your site.

Thanks again.

- TheZeroYear

I had a family member that died of bone cancer in the 1971. My great aunt had suffered from the chemo and only smoking would get her feeling better. They sent her home from MD Anderson with a shoe box full of marajuana and I helped her role the whole box. I was 17 years old and had never smoked. I saw what a great job it did for her. I had testicular cancer in 1988 that had spread. They did a couple of surgeries then gave me chemo. The first thing I ask was are you going to let me smoke for the sickness. They told me they had a pill form that was better. So this tells me they know that it does help cancer sufferers. Yes our government is out of hand but a few people cannot take it back. If you try you will need a lot of funding. This is the name of the game. It seems if you want something done you have to pad some pockets. The best we can hope far is far some official gets sick and uses. If theyknew how well it works they might change their mind.

I was depending on our government and doctors to protect me. It only made my problem bigger. Every doctor I saw wanted me to keep using these drugs. They said I had to many problems and needed them. I have been off for almost a year and have been using asprin. Yes I have pain but I don't need all those drugs. Now they have burned up my recptors and this class of drugs will not work for me. Oxycontin is the hardest thing I ever got off of and I have had them all. They gave me buckets of morphine in the hospital and I had no problem. I used the fentynal patch and had no problem stopping. Our great government let these people get away with murder. I know they may have bought it off the street but it should have never been used except for terminal people. Yes I know we are all terminal but you know who I'am talking about. More people need to know about Suboxone along with more doctors. We seem to have a bunch of chicken shit attorneys in Texas. They don't want to touch anything like this.

Yes our drug laws need to change. Like everything else if you put someone in charge it want be long before they line their pockets. I really think some of the pain management clinics need to be checked a little more often. This is how I got addicted and it was legal. Had I known the truth I would have never used Oxycontin. I wish I had the answer so I could give it to you and others. Good luck

I already planned on making everyone I know get together and watch this. The morning after I watched your movie, I went to work in outrage, I knew deep down that things weren't right and that it made absolutely no sense that people where put in prison and jail for being addicted to anything. Everyone is addicted to something may it be food, cloths or drugs. I will be active with this and although I am just one person I am going to try to figure out how to get the question answered from Obama what his take is on your documentary. I don't have to remain anonymous, I would love to be heard.

Thank you again!

Kristina

Michigan

When Can I purchase this awsome record of deception to show my parents the truth. I am a convicted felon( Possession of more than three ounces of a controlled substance in the plant form). I harnessed Mother Nature in the privacy of my own home and became a P.O.W. in this war. I lost everything. It has taken me 7 years to rebuild my life. They need to know. Please, help me.

Charlie

i loved the movie i think u need to show it to the world. everyone needs to know. because like u said they are all in a little box never thinking outside the box. not learning the real facts all government propaganda movie was amazing learned alot deff. and i think the public needs more more more more the more you expose it the more citizens will eventually learn prohibition doesnt work but control and regulation would

Galvin

Hello,

My husband and I currently watched your documentary AMERICAN DRUG WAR and would really like to own a DVD and/or book of this.

Also, we'd be interested in reading/watching your other work.

While watching AMERICAN DRUG WAR, we both shared our agreed views that are spoken through your words. We both learned we had (already) written papers on this in high school and college. Boy, so we wish we had saved our papers!

Please let me know if your movies and/or books are available to purchase. If so, where and how do we acquire?

Thank you, in advance, for your time and attention to my email.

And, Thank You for being such a well spoken representative of Freedom of Speech and Free Thinking!

Your Respectful Fans,

Gladecia & Patrick

I saw the documentary for the first time last night on Showtime and wanted to give you a thumbs up. Your documentary hit the nail on the head of several subjects I've noticed myself in the media, yet no one else seems able to take note of. The only critique I have of the film is with the scene in the latter half of the movie where the kids were brazenly blowing reefer smoke directly into the camera lens. This scene struck me as a little juvenile incomparison with the rest of the film, which was very well orchestrated.

I congratulate your efforts and felt it was very eye opening and informative. Given that this country is slowly turning into a nation of uniformed mindless zombies incapable of critical thought, your film has the potential to better educate many in the masses.

I am awaiting the DVD release of the film. Good luck with the video distribution.

Thanks,

Ben

Dear Kevin,

First off, let me congratulate you on a great documentary. The views expressed emulate my own beliefs almost to the letter.

You, like myself, struggled with addiction to prescription painkillers, namely oxycontin. In the movie you showed, but did not mention by name, the drug Suboxone. From that I am guessing you, like myself, depended on Suboxone or Subutex to get you off of oxy. Your movie was great in the aspect that it told the american modern history of drugs and the intertwined relationship between the drugs on the street and our governments support, or at very least willingness to look the other way at problems like the crack epidemic of the 80s and 90s, to the boom of opium production in Afghanistan after our occupation. The point you made about the start of the war and its timing in relation to poppy plant planting season was very interesting indeed.

I propose to you another movie, one in which the epidemic of prescription drug abuse and its recent explosion unto the american public in numbers never seen before. Beyond just painkillers to tranquilizers, speed, and other pharmaceutical made chemicals which are becoming more of an epidemic than the chemicals we have made illegal. The blurring line between legal and illegal for such substances, and doctors propensity to get their patients addicted just to get more yearly bonuses from their pharmaceutical reps. More than heroin is a problem, prescription versions of the substance (i.e. oxy, vicodan, etc) are moreso, due to the fact that they are doled out by doctors, sold in stores, and don't carry the social stigma that drugs like heroin do. Every drug education class in the world will warn you about the terrible addictive nature of heroin, but do they ever mention the fact that your own trusted doctor could be prescribing you the same chemical for "your wellbeing"?

I think this topic could easily fill 90 minutes at the very least, and seeing as how the number of americans abusing these substances is growing exponentially, it will definitely be a topic that holds the public interest. Your thoughts on this subject would be greatly appreciated (hell, any response at all would be appreciated).

Many thanks,

Adam

I wanted to express my kudos to you for your film.

I have been a medical marijuana activist (see www.stophippieprofiling.org for info) for many years. In addition to fighting for all our civil rights I have sat on the humboldt County Board of Supervisors and got the medical marijuana guidelines passed there see www.safeaccessnow.net

If I can be of any assistance in helping get the word out on your film I'm happy to do so If your in the bay area let me know.

Thanks

Jason

Hello Kevin,

I just finished watching your documentary 'American Drug War'. What an amazing film. I am a film student working on a documentary of my own for class. I want to thank you for not only an inspiring film for me but an educational (to say the least) one at that. I'm most struck by the connections of the Drug War and the War on Terror including all the same players and the same affect on the American people.

Last semester I edited together footage for a documentary on racial profiling that included an interview with Gary Webb. The diversity of both war's ill effects on our society, especially the black community, leave me in shock but not surprised.

Thank you again for an amazing piece. As someone that has survived two cancers and AIDS there were plenty of aspects that touched me all to close to home.

Best Regards,

David

I just watched your newest documentary "American Durg War". It really got the wheels in my head spinning even more so than they already were...it helped that I was smoking a joint at the time but you know....

I really would like to be an acitve member to help our country and it's people. Between you and I, if I wouldnt spend the rest of my life in prison-I'd shoot the president myself! Land of the FREE-bullshit, now dont get me wrong I feel blessed to be an American. However Im not an American living in America-I'm an American living in Politics, Greed, Power and LIES!

Before I start ranting, raving, bitching, and telling you things you already know- I was wondering if you could clue me in on the first steps I can take to help us-what can I do??

Thank so much for you time-I hope you can help me get my foot in the door-so we can Save America one pothead at a time!

Peace-Love-Pot

Heather

Hello Trae & Kevin,

Just watched your documentary on war on drugs.... fabulous. I worked for the Reagan Bush national committee, Congressman Daniel Lungren in his congressional office and consider myself well informed. I'm a 53 year Newport Beach idiot! You have forever changed my thought process and realize how stupid this country is with the war on drugs.

My son grew his own marijuana and has been charged with cultivation (the only charge) and of course they want to put him jail for 6 months. The more I educate myself ... the angrier I get. His trial is in April 08. I wish I could show your entire movie to the jury. I will let my son's atty know about this documentary, extremely educational.

Thank you so much for doing this incredible documentary! Genius.

By the way for first time since I was 18 years old.. I will not vote republican.

Sincerely,

Bonnie

America Drug War was an excellent documentary. And I'm glad a fellow Austinite ,or as Tommy Chung said "Willie Country", is doing it big now. Don't be a stranger too Austin their are a lot of stories that should be documented.

-Artis

im so happy you got your movie on showtime....thats sweet...congrats...its a great and important film.....i kind of took a break for a while but now im back and running my own comedy room at Rutgers university.....i want to come to LA over the summer so ill look you up.....once again congrats and thanks for fighting the good fight

MATT

i was very very very pleased to see your documentry. ive been tellin people this for years im only 22 years old but im not that stupid to believe what they want us to believe .like come on who made crystal meth it would take million dollars to develope and on top of that years in a lab. people believe anything the government tells them anyways i was wondering where i could pick up a copy of this video??? i just caught the last hour of it and couldnt tape it ??? i could pay you and you could send a dvd to my house ?? ill give you my name and street and all that good stuff ? this is like LOOSE CHANGE this has to get out there im sure you are familar with thats documentry if not u should definitly look into it www.loosechange911.com but i would really really want a copy of this sorry for the way im writing its 3:25 in florida right now and it just got off of showtime i was so moved i had to get out of bed so thanks for your time hope to here back from you very soon.

Anonymous

Hello Kevin,

I just finished watching the film that you made called "American Drug War". Your video educated me, and inspired me. I would like to tell you that I am a marijuana user. I do not smoke cigarettes. I do not drink alcohol, and with the exception of one time use of mushrooms, I have never done anything other than pot. We both know that marijuana is not a gateway drug. The users personal choice to move onto other drugs is not dependent on whether they have used marijuana. I want to thank you for your production of this film.

Sadly, I tried to show this information to my mother, Who has parents from the post WW2 generation. My father is also from the post WW2 generation. She agrees with me on some issues but will not meet eye to eye. She sees my research I have been doing on marijuana as an obsession. But I take this war very personally and am very passionate. I feel I have a target on my back. I have to admit, I am addicted to marijuana. So as of two weeks ago I stopped using it. Obviously the addiction wasn't as strong as my love for my girlfriend and realization I need to cut my use down. I'm not quiting forever. I'm just not a habitual user any longer. I realize that the only way to change this countries laws are for people to start to get involved. Thats why I am emailing you today. I want to get involved. Sadly, I am only eighteen years of age and am still a student. Aside from those facts, I would like to help in any way. I know about Norml. I know about Safer. I just want to know how I can educate others, because education is the key.

Sincerely,

Neal

(p.s. i'm ready to just up and leave this country once legally able to do so if nothing changes in this next administration.)

Hey Kevin,

Watched your movie, The American Drug War on Showtime this past weekend.

Wow, one of the best movies I have ever seen. Awesome!! Blows my mind.

Thanks

Rob

I was so impressed with your film that I have MADE like 8 people that I am close to watch it, it is just a bonus that you are from Austin because I too know the cool waters of Barton Springs and the great tacos at Guerro's. I have lived here almost my whole life. The topic of the greatest failed domestic policy in our history is something that is close to my heart as well. I am an avid MPP supporter and share a lot of the same views that were expressed in your film. I was particularly impressed with the amount of damning evidence of the CIA'S involvement in the crack cocaine epidemic in Los Angles. You are doing a great job and I hope that you continue your fight in the pursuit of the truth. If you ever need any help with activism or heck anything else let me know I am happy to help.

A BIG FAN,

Derek

Dear Mr. Booth, I am a 23 year old native son of Northern KY. I just wanted to tell you how much your film inspired me to open people's eyes on the issue of Medical Marijuana and the corruption of our government.

I am a former Marijuana user and also have had problems in the past with prescription pain-killers prescribed to me from my physician. I can sympathize very well with your situation.

I am in the process of beginning a group at my university, Northern Kentucky, to speak out for the legalization of Medical Marijuana, as well as discussing the current pitfalls of our legal system against non-violent drug offenders.
Thank you for your hard and brilliant work. I hope to see more material from you on these issues in the future.

Sincerely,

Aaron

i watch 5 - 10 documentaries each week. i'm a junkie.

i just finished yours.

wow.

it's, by far, THE BEST documentary i have ever seen.

thank you for making it.

i can't say that enough.

Clarissa

I am 25 yrs old and a proud to be a stoner, and enthusiastic to say that I help spread the message that your film presents. Since the first time I saw it on Showtime I have watched it 5 times welcoming anyone that will sit and absorb the ground shattering information it contains. I also have lost family members to "legal drugs". Two of my Grandparents died due to lung cancer, one a very slow and lonely death due to a love of alcohol that could never be quelled, and w/ my last grandparent just within the last week of being diagnosed w/ cancer as well. Your film raises so many questions about our whole system to me. My grandparents and parents, like w/ most ppl that have been indoctrinated w/ the lies and illusions that the system makes, could not get any of our deceased family members to try natual medicine. Each and every one of the ppl who appeared in the documentary are truely courageous in the sense of the word. One day I hope we, as a country, can look back on the War on Drugs and realize how stupid it all was. If every there is anything I can do to be of service to future documentaries I would jump at the shot. I believe what you and those around you are trying to accomplish in opening the American ppl's eyes out of our apathetic state.

All I Can Say is...Thank You,

Jason

hello kevin,

congratulations on your film. i've been viewing it on showtime every single time it airs...you've packed a tremendous amount of information into this film and it requires multiple viewings to get a handle on all of the parts.

i am a former correspondent for abc news radio in new york and i've produced some extensive pieces, so i can only imagine the amazing footage that ended up on the cutting room floor from american drug war.
you probably have enough for another film!

are you currently involved in another project? if so and you need a researcher or writer, please consider me. in addition to writing and broadcasting...i'm also a photographer and a jazz acupuncturist. i do special events as well and i'm an artist (chinese brush painting). i'm happy to send more information if any of this interests you.

all the best,

marcia

i live in fort walton beach florida and i have been struggling for a long time with my addiction to heroin methadone and oxycontin and any other percrription painkiller i could get my hands on. i am 17 years old and i will be 18 in 3 months but none of the methadone clinics around here can take me because im not 18 yet. i was on suboxone for 3 and a half moths and it didnt work at all for me i was still having to take methadone the whole time. i got addicted because of multiple accidents that i have had i was perscribed oxycodone for 3 months and then they cut me off. please get back to me i dont know what to do and i was hoping you could help me. i watched american drug war and its about time someone had the courage to talk about this issue. im thinking my last hope is to move to holland , amsterdam so i can go to de regenboog.

By the way I LOVE YOUR New Documentary american drug war

Anonymous

Kevin,

I have a son who is a victim of being a drug and alcohol addict. He has spent the last 10 years of his 22 year life in one form or another of rehab or incarceration. He has been treated as a criminal for an obvious non-criminal problem. His was not a behavior problem, nor social environment problem and certainly not a criminal one - his is like most of the 50% of the inmates locked behind bars today - a physical addiction problem. THANK YOU so much for bringing that out in your excellent filmwork.

I started watching your film and found so many parallels with my son's life and even mine. I was a 5th Special Forces A-team leader in Vietnam and prior to that a QRF team leader in Korea on the DMZ there. In Vietnam we were "PROVIDED" with drugs to help us stay alert and go to sleep when we got back off our missions. In Korea the US Government runs a medical bus that daily goes into the villages to check and card the prostitutes for STV's because they KNOW GI's will use the prostitutes. Yet, in the US we do not realize or attempt to realize that if drugs are available, some will use them regardless. Until we either legalize the sale and use of drugs (medicinal first then as alcohol) people in great numbers that could be contributing to life will die or be incarcerated hopelessly.

Your enlightening of the public on Holland/Amsterdam should be on the front page of every US Newspapers. It should be required reading for lawmakers, judges, law enforcement and every US Citizen (that can read.) Right or wrong their system works albeit not perfect MAGNITUDES better than ours. Our alcohol laws - right or wrong - work well enough to be socially and even criminally accepted - so why not DRUGS? It is so true that it is easy for a teenager to get drugs within 30 minutes but takes days for them to get alcohol!

I really enjoyed the exposure you gave on the rewards and who's getting them in Afganistan with their ONLY major product. Seems to me I remember Bush stating that they would substantially reduce their agricultural products that leads to illegal drup production - I recently saw they had a banner year this past year?

Incidentally, Joe Rogan is one of my friends and I'll always think even more of him now as he openly st