Soul On Fire - The Feel Good Movie of the Season

What happens when trauma nearly extinguishes your life — then sets it ablaze again in a new mission? Soul on Fire arrives not just as a film but a clarion call: to resilience, faith, and the power of an unbroken spirit. Here’s everything you need to know before walking into this emotional, uplifting biopic.

What Is Soul on Fire?

Soul on Fire is a 2025 biographical drama from Sony’s Affirm Films that chronicles the extraordinary true story of John O’Leary, a St. Louis native who survived full-body burns as a child and went on to become an international speaker and motivator. Wikipedia+2MovieGuide+2

Directed by Sean McNamara (known for Soul Surfer, Reagan) and adapted by Gregory Poirier from O’Leary’s memoir On Fire: The 7 Choices to Ignite a Radically Inspired Life, the film seeks to dramatize both the pain and the purpose behind a life transformed by tragedy. Sean McNamara+2MovieGuide+2

The official runtime is approximately 1 hour 51 minutes (or about 112 minutes in some listings). Cinemark+3Fandango+3Wikipedia+3

It was released in the U.S. and Canada on October 10, 2025. Wikipedia+2Soul On Fire+2

Plot (Spoiler-Light)

At age 9, John O’Leary suffered a nearly fatal accident that left him with life-threatening burns covering his entire body. Movie Insider+2Wikipedia+2

He was given almost no chance of survival, but through grueling recovery—physically, mentally, and emotionally—he found himself forced to lean on family, faith, community, and unlikely alliances. Sean McNamara+3Movie Insider+3MovieGuide+3

One of those pivotal relationships was with Jack Buck, the legendary baseball announcer, who becomes a figure of encouragement and a representation of hope during John’s darkest hours. Movie Insider+3Wikipedia+3Sean McNamara+3

As John grows, he faces not just the scars of his past, but the question: What does it mean to truly live after a life that was almost lost? His journey toward speaking, mentoring, and inspiring becomes the backbone of the film’s emotional arc. Sean McNamara+3MovieGuide+3Wikipedia+3

Cast & Crew

• Joel Courtney plays John O’Leary (adult) Movie Insider+3Wikipedia+3MovieGuide+3

• William H. Macy appears as Jack Buck Wikipedia+2MovieGuide+2

• John Corbett plays Dennis (O’Leary’s father) Wikipedia+2MovieGuide+2

• Stéphanie Szostak, Masey McLain and DeVon Franklin in supporting roles Wikipedia+2MovieGuide+2

• Sean McNamara (Director) Sean McNamara+2MovieGuide+2

• Gregory Poirier (Writer) MovieGuide+2Wikipedia+2

• Producers include J. Todd Harris, Margaret French Isaac, David Brookwell Wikipedia+2MovieGuide+2

• Music / Score by Mark Isham Wikipedia

Why Soul on Fire Matters

1. A True Story of Extreme Trauma and Triumph

Full-body burns are among the most severe forms of trauma, both physically and psychologically. This film brings rare visibility to that suffering—and the extraordinary recovery that followed. Wikipedia+3MovieGuide+3Movie Insider+3

2. A Faith-Based, Inspirational Narrative

Unlike purely secular biopics, Soul on Fire is anchored in faith and spiritual redemption. It aims to uplift, challenge, and spark hope, making it particularly significant for viewers who value stories of faith in the face of adversity. Soul On Fire+2MovieGuide+2

3. Local Roots & Authentic Setting

Much of the film was shot in St. Louis, Missouri—John O’Leary’s hometown—and uses actual locations tied to his life, adding a layer of authenticity. Movie Insider+2Sean McNamara+2

4. Counterprogramming and Timing

The October 10 release places Soul on Fire in competition with blockbusters (Tron: Ares, Kiss of the Spider Woman) but also allows it to reach audiences looking for something more heartfelt and motivational. Reddit+2Movie Insider+2

5. A Movement, Not Just a Movie

The film is being positioned as more than entertainment—it’s being framed as a catalyst for personal transformation. The official site and John O’Leary’s platforms invite viewers to see Soul on Fire as a movement for inspiration. Soul On Fire+2John O'Leary+2

Viewing Info & Practical Tips

• Rating: PG (parental guidance suggested for thematic content including burn injury depictions, some peril, and faint hint of suggestive material) Movie Insider+1

• Runtime: Approx. 1h 51 min (some listings 112 min) Fandango+2Wikipedia+2

• Release Date: October 10, 2025 (nationwide U.S./Canada) Wikipedia+2Movie Insider+2

• Showtimes & Formats: Available in standard theatrical formats. Check your local listings—e.g. Cinemark shows it as a drama / faith film with standard presentation. Cinemark+2Fandango+2

• Trailers & Promotion: The official trailer is available online (YouTube). YouTube

• Ticketing Tip: As a more niche, faith-leaning drama, audiences budgeting for multiplex releases may be smaller; it’s wise to reserve seats early, especially for evening showings.

Best viewing approach: Let yourself go into the film with an open heart. This is less about spectacle and more about emotional resonance. Tissue box recommended.

What to Expect Emotionally & Thematically

• Emotional Highs and Lows: The film leans into grief, pain, and the long path of healing. Be prepared for raw scenes that may be intense.

• Redemption & Faith as Central Pillars: O’Leary’s spirituality is integral—not a side note. Expect spiritual language, prayer, and moments of transcendence.

• Character Over Action: This is not an action spectacle—it’s a portrait of a life. Character beats, conversations, relationships, and symbolism will carry much of the film’s weight.

• Inspiration, Not Sugarcoating: While uplifting, the narrative doesn’t entirely gloss over trauma. It acknowledges real suffering and the long road afterward.

Final Thoughts & Takeaway

Soul on Fire is a film built for those who seek more than passive entertainment—those who want to leave a theater changed, hopeful, and inspired. Its value lies in its authenticity: the story of a young boy, burned nearly to death, who fights not just to live, but to lead a purpose-driven life.

If you're moved by stories of resilience, faith, and the indestructibility of the human spirit, this movie aims to meet you where you are. And if you like, I can also put together a spoiler breakdown, discussion questions, or key thematic Easter eggs you can look out for. Want me to go there next?