Think of it this way: “Paralyzed by Hope” is the rare “celebrity” documentary that actually would have benefitted from being split into two parts. Zach Galifianakis similarly marvels at how close Bamford is able to cut to the things that made her. And you’ll walk away with a hard-won appreciation for everything Maria Bamford is and hopes to be. Grade: B“Paralyzed by Hope: The Maria Bamford Story” premiered at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival. Want to stay up to date on IndieWire’s film reviews and critical thoughts?