Film - MOLLY Vs THE MACHINES

Off the Wall Films presents

MOLLY Vs THE MACHINES

Mark Silver, UK, 2026, 83m, 15

NB - Doors at 5:30pm for a 6:30pm start. The programme will end around 9:00pm. Pre-screening supper, available to pre-order only, served in the Waterside 5:30 - 6:15pm. To order supper simply buy a meal ticket as listed above (nb - supper bookings will close at 12:00 midnight on the Saturday before the screening).

From a teenager’s suburban bedroom to the boardrooms of Silicon Valley, Molly Vs the Machines is the story of a heartbroken father’s quest to uncover the truth behind his daughter's death and his fightback against how the most powerful corporations of the modern age operate.

At just 14 years old, Molly Russell came home from school, finished her homework and said goodnight to her family. A few hours later, she took her own life. Surrounded by a loving circle of family and friends, it was a life-shattering mystery to all who knew her. In search of an answer Ian, her devastated father, pieces the final months of her life back together only to discover that, when Molly looked at her phone, social media machines dragged her into darkness. 

Co-written by Harvard professor and best-selling author Shoshana Zuboff, the film follows the trail of two narratives and their devastating convergence.  Molly’s friends, family and associated professionals trace in detail what happened to Molly, while the economic logic behind Big Tech helped fuel an algorithmic spiral resulting in tragic consequences.

Now, as Big Tech's global domination escalates with AI, Molly's story reminds us that the real power is still in our hands.

This is a nationwide premiere screening in partnership with Glasgow Film Festival and features a pre-recorded discussion with Marc Silver (director), Ian Russell (Molly's Father), Charlotte Campbell (Molly's friend), hosted by Carole Cadwalladr.

Voluntary donations - Off the Wall Films is a not-for-profit enterprise. All donations - very gratefully received - will go towards improving the OtWF programme and the presentation of films at WSC.

Carers' tickets - we offer complimentary tickets to carers of people with disabilities. If you would like to attend the screening along with the person in your care please message  [email protected]  with your request for a ticket. Please note - you are eligible for this offer only if you are accompanied by a paying person with disabilities.