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Paralyzed by Hope: The Maria Bamford Story

Play trailer Paralyzed by Hope: The Maria Bamford Story 2026 1h 56m Biography Documentary Play Trailer Watchlist
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Tomatometer 9 Reviews Popcornmeter 0 Ratings

Critics Reviews

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Bilge Ebiri New York Magazine/Vulture 1d
Watching Paralyzed by Hope, we start to understand why other comedians, including Apatow himself, would be so fascinated and electrified by Bamford’s work. She lives on the front lines of a war others only occasionally allow themselves to fight. Go to Full Review Brian Tallerico RogerEbert.com 2d
While the film about her sometimes feels a bit bio-doc generic ... and runs about 15-20 minutes too long, her story is clearly one that more people need to hear—people who love comedy and people who are struggling to maintain their own stability. Go to Full Review Elizabeth Weitzman TheWrap 3d
In less-experienced hands, Bamford's story might have been a midnight movie that played well to just a few admirers. But this moving doc happens to have been made by fans who know a thing or two about crafting a narrative. Go to Full Review Scott Menzel We Live Entertainment 4d
8/10
Consistently entertaining and surprisingly profound, Paralyzed by Hope: The Maria Bamford Story is a must-see that truly offers a little something for everyone. Go to Full Review Cody Dericks Next Best Picture 4d
8/10
The affection and admiration the filmmakers have for Bamford shine through without ever casting her in a hagiographic light. This bio-doc successfully does what all films of its type strive to do: it turns all viewers into fans of its subject. Go to Full Review Read all reviews

Cast & Crew

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Judd Apatow

Director

Neil Berkeley

Director

Maria Bamford

Self

Judd Apatow

Producer

Neil Berkeley

Producer

Amanda Rohlke

Producer

Movie Info

Director
Judd Apatow, Neil Berkeley
Producer
Judd Apatow, Neil Berkeley, Amanda Rohlke, David Heiman
Genre
Biography, Documentary
Original Language
English
Runtime
1h 56m