Educational Media Reviews Online

What is the drug Molly? Is it really pure MDMA? Is it the same as Ecstasy? Why is it so addictive? This current DVD from Human Relations Media answers these and other questions about the drug commonly known as Molly. Testimonies from young adults who have used, been addicted, and recovered from Molly bring insight into the world of a Molly addict.

Comparing Molly to the very addictive and deadly drug Ecstasy is a main theme throughout this program. Marketing strategies successfully rebranded Ecstasy into Molly around 2007. Ecstasy was a popular drug in the 1990s and after interest waned, it was rebranded and originally marketed at Molly’s Plant Food—touting it as “pure” MDMA, the main ingredient in Ecstasy. Because of this marketing technique, many users thought they were getting a more pure form of Ecstasy, a natural, plant based ingredient not cut with other substances. However, those marketing claims are proving false, and Molly can be a mixture of all different types of drugs and chemicals, including stimulants and crystal meth.

The health effects of Molly can be devastating, the primary problem being an overdose of dopamine in the brain, and an inability for the body to regulate body temperature. The body can literally “cook” its cells to death. The after effects of depression and lack of motivation can ruin a young life, soon leading to risky and dangerous behaviors to supply an addiction. Using animation and expert narration, the program explains the role of dopamine and why drugs and other stimulants to the brain’s “pleasure center” can cause addiction. Marketing and targeting younger people to Molly and other drugs is particularly dangerous because the brain is still forming and growing.

The DVD is professionally made in all respects, and includes a Teacher’s Resource Book. The brief running time is good for classroom use, and will set the stage for further discussion. This program is targeted towards a teen and young adult audience, and the main theme is a cautionary one, constantly reminding viewers of the ominous results of becoming addicted to Molly. Compared to other Human Relations Video offerings, this program surprisingly feels a little preachy. This may be due to the concentrated focus on one drug and may lose a little of its impact on a teen audience. Nevertheless, it is recommended for high school media centers. College counseling centers may find it helpful, however, libraries at this level may want to invest in another more universal drug abuse program from Human Relations Media such as Emerging Drugs of Abuse.