Yes I Am – The Ric Weiland Story the story of one of the world’s most generous gay philanthropists was written and directed by Bear, and Hurley was one of the film’s producers. Hurley’s own film is an inspiring feature based on his life story about being gay and immigrating from Russia when he was a teenager is Potato Dreams of America
After the screenings, both filmmakers sat down with QUEERGURU to talk about their films’ journeys to date. The interview conducted by Roger Walker-Dack was filmed by Dan Desjardins at the Lands End Inn in Provincetown
Seattle queer filmmaker, Wes Hurley’s new dark comedy POTATO DREAMS OF AMERICA is his touching real-life story of how his Russian mother, a doctor, actually became a mail order bride so that the two of them could have a brand new life in the US
It’s a beautifully poignant movie that is a story of hope that doesn’t shy away from the fact that it came at a price. Potato (aka Hurley) and his mother could only find work in a fast-food establishment but they are both resilient and their good humor gives this story the ending it deserves.
Look out for a scene-stealing performance by an almost unrecognized as Lea Delaria who plays Potato’s grandmother Tamara
The movie has been selected as the Opening Gala of OUTshine LGBTQ Film Fest so QUEERGURU talked with Hurley to discover if his life really was as funny as it seemed
You can read Queerguru's full review of the movie HERE
P.S. Hurley is also a Producer of another movie screening at Outshine. You can check ou review of YES I AM, THE RIC WEILAND STORY Here