Raise Hell: The Life & Times of Molly Ivins takes us through the outspoken journalist’s career from her childhood to her death at age 62. I wish she was still with us – her voice was brilliant and funny and sharply insightful.
Raise Hell: The Life & Times of Molly Ivins from writer and director Janice Engel looks at Ivins life. She started in Texas as a bookish kid. A liberal thinker, seemingly from birth, she went on to a life of fame and notoriety as a journalist, columnist, and book author.
Ivins died in 2007 from complication of breast cancer, back at home in Texas. She traveled around the country to different newspapers during her career, but ended up in Austin.
The film wisely lets Ivins speak for herself most of the time. Recordings of her during interviews and speeches show her wit, creativity, and viewpoint. There are quotes and comments from many friends and co-workers, of course, but the good stuff is Ivins herself.
I read her columns and reporting avidly. She so perfectly spoke for me and everyone who realized what a dirty mess politics are.
This documentary is currently streaming on Hulu, YouTube, Prime Video and others. I’m so sorry Molly Ivins didn’t live long enough to skewer T*ump for his every utterance. But as I learned in this film, she accurately predicted what was coming: the state of politics, income inequality, and right wing demagogues.
Here’s the trailer.
For an American of my age and political leanings, this doc was must viewing! Are you going to watch it?
Her books are still read. Check this list of Molly Ivins