Channel 4 has confirmed a new online safety–themed documentary film, Molly vs The Machines.
The documentary focuses on the tragic death of British teenager Molly Russell in 2017. The film is produced by Snowstorm Productions and Storyboard Studios and directed by Marc Silver.
The documentary explores Molly’s life and her exposure to social media algorithms, examining the role of big tech companies. Following his daughter’s death, Molly’s father, Ian Russell, has led campaigns to strengthen online safety. The production was developed in close cooperation with Molly’s family and friends.
The documentary comes at a time when online safety is being widely debated both publicly and politically. The film is financed by Channel 4, Luminate, Screen Scotland, Doc Society, and the Ford Foundation’s JustFilms.
It will premiere at the Glasgow Film Festival on March 1, followed by a one-night-only limited theatrical screening on the same day.
