Sean Finn, the visionary entrepreneur and founder of Finn & Company, a Houston-based real estate investment and development firm, has left an indelible mark on numerous industries. With his unwavering determination and business acumen, Sean has ventured into the film industry, energy, healthcare, technology and even the metaverse.
Sean recently graced the famed 76th annual Cannes Film Festival at Palais des Fesivals in his ongoing pursuit of excellence in film. GY Vieux-Port de Cannes, a star venue for festivities during the event, was abuzz with the excitement of fashion shows, world-premieres and gala fundraisers. Sean immersed himself in the sphere of cinema, attending the red carpet and screening of Black Flies, a gripping production that touched the depths of human emotion.
Based on the 2008 novel of the same name by Shannon Burke, Black Flies tells the story of a rookie paramedic who receives a crash course in life-saving skills while partnering with an experienced New York veteran. It stars Sean Penn, Tye Sheridan, Katherine Waterston, Michael Pitt, Mike Tyson and Raquel Nave. This enterprising entrepreneur’s appreciation for thought-provoking narratives shone through as he shared his admiration for the film. “Jean-Stéphane Sauvaire’s film vividly depicts the intense pressure this occupation entails. The filmmakers are very clear in their intention with the film, which is to bring focus to those paramedics who are completely overwhelmed.”
As an equity partner in Cross Creek Pictures, Sean has aligned himself with esteemed film production companies, contributing his vision and resources to blockbusters like Black Swan (Natalie Portman), Hacksaw Ridge (Mel Gibson), and Black Mass (Johnny Depp), to name a few. His involvement in these raw and realistic films demonstrates his commitment to supporting impactful storytelling and his ability to identify opportunities that transcend industries.
Born and raised in Toronto, Sean discovered his entrepreneurial spirit at a young age. His mother, a successful businesswoman with a real estate background, instilled in him the fundamentals of business and nurtured his early ventures. “My mother would always share her wisdom with my siblings and me, educating us on matters related to the business sector and getting us involved in entrepreneurial pursuits.” After playing professional hockey and facing a career-ending injury, Sean’s resilient spirit led him to pursue a law degree and ultimately enter the realm of business.
Sean’s encounters at Cannes led him to networking opportunities where he had the privilege of dining with none other than Jeff Bezos, the visionary founder of Amazon. Finn described Bezos as an “incredibly impressive individual,” emphasizing the importance of connecting with innovative minds from various industries. Sean also connected with acclaimed Hollywood director Brett Ratner and Jordan Belford, whose memoir was the source material Martin Scorsese’s Wolf of Wall Street. Given Scorsese’s dark and gritty representations of American culture that he has become revered for, it is understandable why Sean puts him at the apex of his favorite directors list.
Sean continues to leverage his network and expertise to explore new avenues for growth. In fact, his Cannes escapade may have already paved the way for his next exciting film project. A potential investor for a film about the notorious international jewel thieves known as The Pink Panthers, a gang believed to consist of up to 200 members. The Pink Panthers nickname was derived from a 2003 London heist in which a criminal followed the plot of the famous Peter Sellers movie by hiding a diamond in a pot of beauty cream.
Sean’s journey at Cannes transcended the world of film. While Sean enjoyed the enchantment of Cannes, he didn’t confine himself solely to the festival. His appetite for extraordinary experiences led him to attend other remarkable events in France, attending The Formula 1 race and the French Open, showing his passion for sporting excellence. “Of course, the Cannes experience wouldn’t be complete without indulging in the luxurious offerings of the French Riviera and swimming in the beautiful water. The Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc is the epitome of elegance and refined hospitality. My taste buds delighted in the flavors of Italian cuisine, with Mama Michelangelo serving as a standout restaurant. I particularly enjoyed sipping on a caffe latte, the rich aromatic flavor of which could not be surpassed.”
As we reflect on Sean Finn’s incredible journey, we are reminded that inspiration can be found in the most unexpected places. From the silver screen to the boardroom, Sean’s tireless pursuit of excellence and his unwavering determination serve as a guiding light for aspiring entrepreneurs and dreamers alike. True success is not confined to a single industry or pursuit. It lies in the ability to explore, adapt, and seize opportunities that align with our passions and values.
