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Paralyzed by Hope: The Maria Bamford Story

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Paralyzed by Hope: The Maria Bamford Story

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Summary

Beloved for blurring performance and personal crisis, Maria Bamford unpacks the mental health journey behind her fearless comedy in this documentary.

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Review

A star rating of 4 out of 5.

Jayne Nelson

US comedian Maria Bamford isn't a household name in the UK, but even for those unfamiliar with her work she makes an undeniably fascinating documentary subject. As a child, Bamford knew she wasn't like other people, obsessing over death and mock-staging her own suicide, much to the bafflement of her parents. Later, she soared from great heights to crashing lows, spending time in psychiatric wards even as her career flourished. All of this is documented by Bamford herself alongside film-maker Judd Apatow, who interviews her family, friends and celebrities including Patton Oswalt, Zach Galifianakis, Stephen Colbert and Conan O'Brien (who, deadpan, blames her for starting the 2025 Los Angeles wildfires). Using her personal life as comedic fuel, Bamford discusses her trauma in forensic detail: "Weakness is the brand," she jokes. Yet, thanks in part to the breadth of excellent stand-up clips, this isn't a maudlin or unpleasant watch. By being so open, Bamford offers an astonishing overview of mental health, loss, laughter and, overall, hope.

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7.7/10

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rolenameDirectorJudd ApatowDramatised byNeil Berkeley

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English

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