Film Lens
The film examines the underground ecstasy scene in Los Angeles, focusing on the experiences of partygoers and dealers. Mariana van Zeller meets with underground party promoter Ziggy, who describes the nature of these gatherings and the drugs involved, particularly ecstasy. The narrative is driven by a personal connection, as Mariana references a warning from her son's middle school about teens overdosing on ecstasy purchased online, highlighting the dangers associated with the drug's accessibility.
Through her interactions with individuals like Ziggy and a dealer named Pito, the film reveals the stark contrast between the vibrant party culture and the violent realities of drug trafficking. Mariana raises critical questions about the complicity of casual users in the drug trade, emphasizing the disconnect between their experiences and the consequences faced by others, including the murder of journalist Peter R. de Vries, which makes clear the wider effects of drug use in society.
Why Watch
- •Meet underground party promoter Ziggy in L.A.
- •Find out how ecstasy is sold at a 1,000% markup.
- •See the impact of drug use on families and communities.
Did You Know
•Three teens overdosed on a bad batch of ecstasy bought online.
•160 million festival tickets were sold worldwide in the year prior to the pandemic.
•Pito sells ecstasy pills at a markup of over 1,000 percent from wholesale to retail.
•Mariana van Zeller met Ziggy, an underground party promoter, at 1:00 A.M. in downtown L.A.
Perfect For
Party culture enthusiastsDrug policy advocatesTrue crime followers