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Drama Cult Classic

Rebellion and reality collide as a college dropout faces the Vietnam draft in the summer of '68.

PURPLE HAZE

It's the summer of 1968. And Matt Caulfield is about to grow up the hard way.

1983 · 1h 37m · R · Drama · IMDB TMDB

The summer of '68 provides the backdrop for this drama that chronicles the experiences of an alienated drop-out from society who with his "chemically dependent" pal, rebels against his parents, college, the draft, and all things Establishment in the usual ways. The authentic music on the soundtrack is notable.

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Quick Answer

What is Purple Haze about?

Purple Haze is a 1983 American drama film directed by David Burton Morris about a college student in 1968 expelled for marijuana use and forced to return home, where he faces the Vietnam draft and societal pressures.

Programmer's Pick

Purple Haze nails the feeling of late-'60s unrest, tossing together campus chaos, anti-establishment antics, and vintage vinyl. If you want your coming-of-age stories with bell-bottoms, bong hits, and the looming threat of conscription, this debut delivers.

— SassyFlix Programmer

Overview

Set against the charged atmosphere of Princeton University in 1968, Purple Haze follows Matt Caulfield and his friends as they celebrate President Lyndon B. Johnson’s decision not to seek reelection by indulging in marijuana. Their revelry is cut short when a noise complaint leads to their expulsion for drug use. Forced to leave campus, Matt returns to his family in Minnesota just as the Vietnam War draft looms large. The summer brings homecoming tensions and the struggle of a young man coming of age amid national upheaval, youthful rebellion, and cultural change. Authentic late-’60s music underscores the portrait of alienation and generational conflict.

Details & Specs

Director
David Burton Morris
Writers
David Burton Morris, Victoria Wozniak
Release
1983
Runtime
1h 37m
Country
United States of America
Language
English
Genres
Drama

Cast & Crew

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Director: David Burton Morris Writers: David Burton Morris +1 more
Peter Nelson Peter Nelson Matt Caulfield CM Chuck McQuary Jeff Maley BB Bernard Baldan Derek Savage SL Susanna Lack Kitty Armstrong Heidi Helmer Heidi Helmer Angela Joel Thingvall Joel Thingvall Diner Cook (uncredited)

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Why Cult

Summer of '68 Setting

Experience the tension and transformation of America in 1968, with real campus unrest and the looming Vietnam draft.

College Dropout Antics

See what happens when Matt and his friends trade Princeton for exile after one too many smoke-filled dorm room celebrations.

Rebellion vs. Establishment

Witness a student’s clash with parents, authority, and the draft, all wrapped in the countercultural movements of the era.

Period-Authentic Soundtrack

Let the soundtrack transport you straight to the era, featuring authentic late-’60s music that heightens every moment.

Scene Gallery

Questions from the Vault

When was Purple Haze released? +

Purple Haze was released in 1983.

Who directed Purple Haze? +

Purple Haze was directed by David Burton Morris.

How long is Purple Haze? +

Purple Haze runs for 97 minutes.

What genre is Purple Haze? +

Purple Haze is a drama.

Where can I watch Purple Haze? +

Purple Haze is available to stream on SassyFlix.

Trailers & Clips

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