Matt Finlin from Niagara-on-the-Lake has carved out a remarkable career in both the not-for-profit and film industries. Renowned for his work in advertising and music videos, he notably served as a producer for WE Charity’s WE Day. Now, he is poised to make an impact in yet another arena with his latest documentary, “Matter of Time,” which is set to premiere on Netflix on February 9.
The documentary tells the compelling story of the battle to find a cure for epidermolysis bullosa (EB), a rare genetic skin condition, and features Eddie Vedder, the lead singer of Pearl Jam. After debuting at the Tribeca Film Festival last June, the film has gained traction on the festival circuit, winning accolades such as Best Music Feature Documentary at the Nashville International Film Festival and Best Film at the San Diego International Film Festival. Following its success, “Matter of Time” is embarking on a 30-theatre run across the U.S. and Canada.
Finlin’s journey with EB began in 2019 when he met Eli, a young boy affected by the condition, an experience that profoundly altered his perspective on life. “When you meet someone with EB, it puts your life into perspective pretty quickly,” he remarked, emphasizing the pain and challenges faced by those with the condition, which can induce wounds akin to third-degree burns over extensive areas of their bodies.
Despite the struggles imposed by EB, Finlin describes Eli as a spirited and humorous kid, embodying hope amidst adversity. The documentary further illustrates Vedder’s commitment to the cause, showcasing his solo benefit concerts in Seattle, which raised significant funds to support the EB Research Partnership—a foundation co-founded by Vedder and his wife, Jill.
Finlin noted that Vedder’s involvement has had a profound impact, helping to raise around $35 million for EB research, resulting in 120 ongoing clinical trials and three FDA-approved treatments. He expressed admiration for the Vedders, lauding their dedication to leveraging their fame for a greater good. “They were such lovely people really trying to find treatments and cures for this,” he said.
While the total funds raised by the documentary are still being calculated, Finlin expressed that the contributions have been impactful. Drawing from Jill’s sentiments shared in the film, he said, “‘EB used to be called like the worst disease you’ve never heard of, but we’ve kind of hopefully changed that — that it’s, hopefully, the worst disease we’ll find a cure for.’”
The film recently concluded its theater run with a sold-out screening in Toronto, an event made particularly special by the presence of many individuals living with EB. Finlin remains engaged with the cause and reinforces his commitment to promoting the documentary. He continues to maintain a close relationship with Eli, stating, “I’m happy to say we’re still doing pretty well, and we’re still close.”
For those wishing to contribute, donation options are available through the EB Research Partnership at ebresearch.org, emphasizing a collective effort to advance research and find treatments for this debilitating condition.