Award-winning actor, writer, and producer Matthew Finlan chatted about starring in “Hell of a Summer” and “Ghosting.”
How was your experience in “Hell of a Summer”?
Shooting this coming of age comedy thriller was such a joy. It genuinely felt like we were actually at summer camp together. I have never had so much fun on set, and as a result I’ve made some incredible friendships.
What was it like working with Finn Wolfhard, Billy Bryk, and Fred Hechinger?
It was a dream! Finn and Billy wrote a script that was effortlessly easy to play with. Their ability to move seamlessly between in front and behind the camera is truly inspiring and Fred is incredible.
I have never seen someone embody their role as deeply as he did. When I first met him, I literally thought he worked for the camp—I didn’t even recognize him with his full beard and messy mop. I’d work with any of these guys any day!
What motivates you each day as an actor?
When I was in theatre school, the faculty would always say, “remember, you’ll go to sleep a better actor than when you woke up,” as a way to remind us that even the hardest days have value. I tend to believe they often hold more value than the best days.
I find a lot of my inspiration from my past self—the little awkward, uncoordinated, flamboyant, annoying Matthew who was bold enough to believe in himself and took the steps necessary to get me where I am now. I owe a lot to him, and I know he’d be so proud.
How has your experience been with “Ghosting”?
It has been the ride of a lifetime. Who could have seen this coming? Before shooting the proof of concept, I remember saying to the series co creator/ co host Luke Hutchie: “It’s actually less crazy to hunt ghosts than it is to be an actor!”
But it has been an honor and a joy to represent a fresh view of Canada and all our talented friends.
Season 2 is now out for everyone to check out, literally for free on YouTube, and CBCGem for fellow Canadians.
How does it feel to be an actor in the digital age? (Now with streaming, technology and social media being so prevalent)
Being an actor in the digital age is overwhelming and exciting at the same time. These days, anything can go viral—hopefully for the right reasons.
There’s no more just waiting for the proverbial phone to ring when you can be the one making calls, creating TikToks, and putting yourself out there.
The digital world has made it possible to be anywhere and connect with anyone. For example–I was in a hotel room in San Francisco when I auditioned for Hell of a Summer.
What do your plans for the future include?
What don’t they include?! I don’t plan on slowing down anytime soon. I have a couple of projects in what I’d call their “infancy stage,” but I believe in speaking things into existence.
So, in short: I want to publish a book, create a new series, and continue my work on camera. If I can afford property somewhere in the world, I’ll grab it—hopefully somewhere near trees and water.
What is your advice for young and emerging actors?
First and foremost, say “yes” to every opportunity that comes your way, and shape them into what you need them to be.
“Work begets work,” so make your own projects, however big or small. Hire your friends and collaborate with people you love.
Don’t let the fear of failure stop you from reaching the place you know you’re capable of getting to. Be cringe. Be yourself.
A director once told me, “The cream always rises to the top.” We were talking about lattes, but I’d say it applies to the industry too.
What does the word success mean to you?
To me, success is not the absence of failure, but the ability to pursue your goals in spite of it.
To learn more about actor Matthew Finlan, follow him on Instagram.
