Colin Farrell is set to appear alongside Emma Fogarty in a powerful new documentary charting her life with the rare genetic condition Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB).
The film, titled The Slightest Touch, has been acquired by HBO Documentary Films and will follow the Laois native as she campaigns to raise awareness about the debilitating illness while continuing to live her life with determination and resilience.
Often referred to as “Butterfly Skin,” Epidermolysis Bullosa is a rare genetic disorder that causes the skin to become extremely fragile, resulting in painful blistering and tearing from even the slightest friction or trauma. Now 41, Fogarty is Ireland’s longest-surviving person living with the most severe form of the condition.
The documentary explores her long-standing friendship with Colin Farrell, who has been a dedicated supporter of both Emma and DEBRA Ireland, the national charity supporting those affected by EB.
In 2024, Farrell ran the Dublin Marathon in support of the cause, with Fogarty joining him for part of the race. The milestone event marked her 40th birthday — an age rarely reached by those living with the most severe forms of EB.
The Slightest Touch delves into their enduring bond, documenting intimate moments from their friendship over the years. The film is set to debut at the Dublin International Film Festival before reaching wider international audiences.
Speaking about the project, Farrell emphasised its deeply personal nature.
“I can't think of The Slightest Touch as a film, certainly not like any film I've ever been a part of before,” he said.
“For me, it's simply a collage of home videos, moments in time, that we all shared during its making. Whatever the film is, whatever people may find it to be, we're so grateful that our adventure, our friendships, and our shared love for each other has found a home on HBO.”
Director Rachel Fleit described the experience of making the documentary as profoundly moving.
“Making this film brought me back, over and over, to what I think matters most in life: love, care, community and the friendships that carry us,” she said. “It was an honour to bear witness to the extraordinary bond between Emma and Colin, and I'm deeply grateful to HBO Documentary Films for helping bring this story, and its message, to audiences around the world.”
The documentary is expected to shine a global spotlight on EB and the strength of those living with the condition.
