Investment banker cubicle worker Harold Lee is pressured by his colleagues to do their work while they leave for the weekend. The sequel, Harold & Kumar Escape from Guantanamo Bay, was released internationally in April 2008. It was also a commercial success, grossing over $23 million worldwide.
The film received positive critical reception, with praise for the performances of its leads (particularly Harris) and subversion of racial and comedic stereotypes. Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle was theatrically released in the U.S. Principal photography began in 2003, with filming primarily done in Toronto. Cho and Harris (who portrays a fictionalized version of himself) were cast early, whereas Penn attended seven auditions. The filmmakers received license permission from White Castle in 2002, after also consulting with Krispy Kreme White Castle also contributed to the film's marketing campaign, releasing tie-in products at their restaurants.
Hurwitz and Schlossberg developed Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle based on experiences and people from when they attended Randolph High School.