Raise Hell: The Life and Times of Molly Ivins

Raise Hell: The Life and Times of Molly Ivins is a well-made documentary that explores the life of political activist and journalist Molly Ivins, through a series of interviews and pre-existing footage. The film effortlessly captures her charming wit and tenacity, making for an engaging glimpse into her life and a true homage to her vibrant character.

It opens with a series of clippings, articles, and recordings of Molly herself, bringing those who may never have heard of her and her immense achievements up to speed. The audience is then drawn to the beginning of her story, where she grew up in Texas with a deep awareness that she would write. Through a series of interviews with colleagues, friends and family members, and a smattering of recordings, a picture of a truly remarkable woman is painted – one who was not frightened to speak up and speak out.

Molly’s career led to work across a wide range of publications, her words reaching thousands as she tackled political injustices wherever she found them. She was a hell-raiser, unafraid to be angry, and she used her remarkable wit and mind to tell stories that mattered in a way that left a bruise on those she spoke against. Her words were always memorable, but her personal story – the story of a deeply shy woman with various personal struggles, uncovered throughout the production – is perhaps even more interesting than her successes, and is certainly the more compelling segment of the film.

The documentary is remarkably well-structured, and it is being released at the perfect time. It showcases a powerhouse talent with a voice ahead of its era, championing others and speaking out against injustice – something vital in the current climate. One thing is clear throughout: we could all do with being a little more like Molly.

Abbie Grundy

Raise Hell: The Life and Times of Molly Ivins is released nationwide on 23^rd October 2020.

Watch the trailer for Raise Hell: The Life and Times of Molly Ivins here: