Once Upon a Time in America...
Richard DeLisi, once a small-time marijuana trafficker, became a symbol of the excessive penalties imposed during the height of the War on Drugs in the United States. Born in Brooklyn, New York, Richard grew up in a time when marijuana was becoming a cultural touchstone, but harsh criminal penalties were attached to its sale and use.
In the 1980s, Richard, along with his brother Ted, was arrested in Florida for smuggling large quantities of marijuana into the state. Convicted in 1989 on charges of racketeering, trafficking, and conspiracy to import marijuana, Richard was handed three consecutive 30-year sentences. At the time, this amounted to a staggering 90 years in prison — a sentence many viewed as disproportionate to the crime, especially as marijuana laws began to relax in the decades that followed.
Richard’s case became a flashpoint in discussions about criminal justice reform, especially as the years passed, and it was clear his punishment did not fit the evolving legal landscape. While serving his time, Richard missed significant life events — the deaths of his wife and son, the births of grandchildren, and much of the social transformation that saw marijuana increasingly legalized across various U.S. states.
After spending 32 years in prison, far longer than most violent criminals, Richard was released in December 2020. His release was championed by criminal justice reform advocates, who had spent years fighting for a reconsideration of his case. Richard's freedom came in the context of broader efforts to correct the injustices of the War on Drugs, which disproportionately affected non-violent offenders like him.
In the 1980s, Richard, along with his brother Ted, was arrested in Florida for smuggling large quantities of marijuana into the state. Convicted in 1989 on charges of racketeering, trafficking, and conspiracy to import marijuana, Richard was handed three consecutive 30-year sentences. At the time, this amounted to a staggering 90 years in prison — a sentence many viewed as disproportionate to the crime, especially as marijuana laws began to relax in the decades that followed.
Richard’s case became a flashpoint in discussions about criminal justice reform, especially as the years passed, and it was clear his punishment did not fit the evolving legal landscape. While serving his time, Richard missed significant life events — the deaths of his wife and son, the births of grandchildren, and much of the social transformation that saw marijuana increasingly legalized across various U.S. states.
After spending 32 years in prison, far longer than most violent criminals, Richard was released in December 2020. His release was championed by criminal justice reform advocates, who had spent years fighting for a reconsideration of his case. Richard's freedom came in the context of broader efforts to correct the injustices of the War on Drugs, which disproportionately affected non-violent offenders like him.
DirectorNate Hammer, is a highly respected figure in the cannabis industry, particularly renowned for his role as a content producer and director. He has carved a niche in creating impactful documentaries and films centered around cannabis, with a special focus on educational content that empowers the cannabis community to cultivate their own plants at home.
Nate's journey into the world of cannabis was driven by his passion for both the plant and filmmaking. Combining these interests, he set out to make a difference in the community by educating and informing through visually compelling content. His work not only entertains but also serves as a critical resource for individuals looking to deepen their understanding of cannabis cultivation and its diverse uses. Over the years, Nate has collaborated with some of the biggest names in the industry. His partnerships include working alongside legendary figures such as Kyle Kushman, Ed Rosenthal, and Jorge Cervantes. Furthermore, he has produced content with celebrities like Jim Belushi and athletes like Ricky Williams who have ventured into the cannabis space. His projects often spotlight industry pioneers like Steve DeAngelo, DNA Genetics as well as respected figures like Swami Chaitanya and The Dank Duchess. One of Nate Hammer's most acclaimed endeavors is the production of the popular podcast "Grow Weed at Home with Kyle Kushman." The podcast is a hit among cannabis enthusiasts and growers, providing in-depth guidance and insights into home cannabis cultivation. The podcast features expert advice, the latest in cultivation technology, and sustainable practices, making it an invaluable resource for both novice and experienced growers. Nate's influence extends beyond podcasts and includes various formats such as narrative films, feature-length documentaries, and educational series, all aimed at different aspects of cannabis knowledge and culture. His commitment to enhancing the educational landscape of cannabis is evident in his meticulous approach to content creation, where he focuses on accuracy, relevancy, and engaging storytelling. |
Nate Hammer
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Producer
Russ McDonald
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Russ McDonald has a career spanning over two decades, He stands as a paragon of innovation and storytelling in the film and television industry. His multifaceted role as a Writer, Producer, and Director has cemented him as one of Hollywood’s most original and captivating storytellers, while his expertise as a sought-after story and production consultant has made him an invaluable asset to some of the industry's most notable figures.
A visionary at heart, Russ's dedication to emerging technologies has positioned him at the vanguard of cinematic evolution. His leadership as President and founding member of the LA Red User Group is a testament to his authority in the realms of digital acquisition, integration, and distribution—skills that have made him a central figure in the RED Digital Cinema revolution. Russ's passion extends beyond the camera lens; his tenure in the US Navy imbues his work with a discipline and precision seen in few others. This experience, coupled with his production prowess, was showcased when he successfully produced and directed "Eddie's Night Out," his first feature film, on a micro-budget over an intense 10-day shooting schedule. As a 3D generalist, Russ is proficient with industry-standard CG software such as C4D, Maya, and the full Adobe production suite, allowing him to bring depth and realism to the worlds he creates on screen. His educational contributions as a lecturer on screenplay writing and producing illuminate his commitment to nurturing the next generation of filmmakers. Russ McDonald's latest project, "Timeline Alpha," further exemplifies his talent and foresight. The series was recognized as a Second Round selectee in the 2023 Austin Film Festival TV Drama Pilot competition, highlighting Russ’s ability to engage audiences with high-concept storytelling. "Timeline Alpha" not only showcases his skills as a creator but also as an educator, providing aspiring creatives with insights into the comprehensive production process—from ideation to post-production. Through "Timeline Alpha," Russ offers a tantalizing glimpse into what makes him a beloved figure in the industry—a blend of historical reverence, sci-fi intrigue, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. His work continues to push the boundaries of new media, ensuring its significant impact on today's dynamic media landscape. . |
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Executive Producer
Rick DeLisi is a passionate cannabis advocate, entrepreneur, and co-founder of DeLisioso, a forward-thinking cannabis brand. His advocacy journey is deeply personal, driven by his family’s painful experience with the harsh consequences of cannabis prohibition. Rick's father, Richard DeLisi, became one of the most high-profile victims of the War on Drugs, serving over three decades in prison for a non-violent marijuana offense. Rick has since dedicated himself to raising awareness about the outdated cannabis laws that continue to devastate families, sharing his father’s story as a rallying cry for reform.
In addition to leading DeLisioso, Rick is actively involved with the Last Prisoner Project, an organization committed to freeing those incarcerated for cannabis-related offenses. The Last Prisoner Project is at the forefront of criminal justice reform, working to overturn unjust sentences, provide reentry support for former prisoners, and advocate for restorative justice in cannabis policy. Rick’s collaboration with the organization amplifies his mission to bring about systemic change, focusing on helping those who remain behind bars even as cannabis becomes legalized in many states. Rick also supports Freedom Grow, which provides financial assistance and resources to the families of incarcerated cannabis prisoners. His work with these organizations highlights his commitment not only to changing laws but also to offering tangible support to the individuals and families most affected by these injustices. Through his advocacy, Rick developed a passion for producing documentary films, recognizing the medium as a powerful way to raise awareness about social justice issues surrounding cannabis reform. His drive to tell the human stories behind these laws has led him to pursue producing projects that shed light on the ongoing struggles of those affected by cannabis prohibition. By combining his personal experience with the power of film production, Rick aims to inspire broader change and bring greater awareness to the social justice issues at the heart of the cannabis movement. |
Rick DeLisi
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