As journalism comes under attack with constant cries of “fake news,” this hugely entertaining documentary about the fierce and fearless writer and social commentator Molly Ivins reminds us how wit and well-channeled vitriol can speak truth to power. Born into a wealthy Texas family and possessed of a razor-sharp pen, Ivins refused to conform to restrictive Southern belle stereotypes and challenged the stuffy white boys’ club that defined journalism in the sixties and seventies. Filmmaker Janice Engel’s feature debut skillfully captures the intelligence, humor, and indefatigable spirit of a true pioneer.

“The doc keeps things bold and boisterous as we get line after line of Molly’s incomparable wit from family and friends recalling stories to actual interviews. The most endearing theme that runs through Raise Hell is the respect that Ivins garnered from both sides of the aisle and the candor with which Engel approaches her subject. Imperfections are embraced and celebrated as challenges to be heartily dealt with.”—Norman Gidney, Film Threat