The Heart of SOUL ON FIRE

Soul on Fire is an upcoming American biographical drama film set to release in theaters nationwide on October 10, 2025. Directed by Sean McNamara and based on John O’Leary’s 2016 bestselling memoir On Fire: The 7 Choices to Ignite a Radically Inspired Life, the film tells the inspiring true story of O’Leary’s survival and transformation after a near-fatal accident.

At nine years old, John O’Leary (portrayed by Joel Courtney, with James McCracken as young John) suffers severe burns across his entire body from a massive explosion in his family’s home in St. Louis, Missouri, leaving him with a 1% chance of survival. Against all odds, John endures a grueling recovery, supported by his family (John Corbett as Denny O’Leary, Stephanie Szostak as Susan O’Leary, Masey McLain as Beth O’Leary), his faith, his community, and the kindness of his idol, Baseball Hall of Fame announcer Jack Buck (William H. Macy). The film also features DeVon Franklin as Nurse Roy.

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Grateful for his miraculous survival and shaped by life’s challenges, John’s journey evolves into a mission to inspire millions to live with courage, gratitude, and purpose, emphasizing the impact of everyday heroes. Filmed in St. Louis, including iconic locations like the Gateway Arch, Busch Stadium, and O’Leary’s childhood home, the movie highlights the community’s role in his recovery. It carries a PG rating for thematic content involving burn injuries, some peril, and suggestive material.

Directed by Sean McNamara (SOUL SURFER, REAGAN), written by Gregory Poirier and based on O’Leary’s bestselling memoir, On Fire, this film is an emotional and faith-filled portrait of resilience as O’Leary not only battles to survive but ultimately discovers what it means to truly live. From frontline workers to family members, and the support of the wider community, this film is a celebration of heroes.