Released in 1937 and directed by Elmer Clifton, “Assassin of Youth” is a famous B-picture about the ill effects of marijuana / cannabis. The plot of the movie centers on a ring of teens who smoke marijuana, who entice an innocent high school girl and lead her on the road to addiction and worse. Meanwhile, a reporter goes undercover as he tries to reveal the story of the gang and expose them for what they are — dope fiends.

“Assassin of Youth” features a screenplay by Charles A. Browne from a story written by Leo McCarthy. The film is often compared to “Reefer Madness”, and has many obvious similarities including sharing cast member Dorothy Short. The film’s memorable title was taken from a Reader’s Digest article written by the USA “drug czar” of that era, Harry J. Anslinger. The film stars Luana Walters as Joan Barry, Arthur Gardner as Art Brighton, Dorothy Short as Marjorie ‘Marge’ Barry, Earl Dwire as Henry ‘Pop’ Brady, Fern Emmett as Henrietta Frisbee, Henry Roquemore as Judge George Herbert, Fay McKenzie as Linda Clayton and Michael Owen as Jack Howard.