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Deep Dive: Little Potato (2017)

Film Lens

Little Potato
Little Potato is a personal narrative by Wes Hurley, who recounts his experiences growing up gay in the Soviet Union. The film contrasts his oppressive childhood in Russia with his new life in Seattle after escaping with his mother, a mail order bride. The film addresses the societal pressures and homophobia he faced in both cultures, providing a backdrop for his exploration of identity and acceptance. The documentary also portrays the complexities of familial relationships, particularly with Wes's American father, a Christian fundamentalist. Through personal anecdotes, Hurley illustrates the difficulties of navigating his sexuality within a strict environment, making the film a moving reflection on the intersection of culture, identity, and acceptance.

Why Watch

  • •Meet Wes Hurley, a gay man from the Soviet Union.
  • •See the contrast between Soviet oppression and American beliefs.
  • •Find out about Wes's relationship with his Christian father.

Did You Know

•Wes Hurley grew up in the Soviet Union before moving to Seattle.
•The film features a runtime of 14 minutes.
•Wes's mother was a mail order bride who escaped with him.
•The documentary includes both English and Russian languages.

Perfect For

LGBTQ+ storiesSoviet historyAmerican family dynamics