Written by: Mike Laxton (October 8, 2025)

Sony Pictures’ AFFIRM Films has built a reputation for powerful, faith-filled storytelling, and their upcoming release Soul on Fire continues that legacy. Inspired by John O’Leary’s 2016 bestselling memoir On Fire and directed by Sean McNamara (Soul Surfer, Reagan), the film tells the remarkable true story of a boy who survived the unthinkable and grew into a man who chose to live with purpose. Starring Joel Courtney (Jesus Revolution, Super 8), John Corbett (My Big Fat Greek Wedding), Stephanie Szostak (A Million Little Things), Masey McLain (The Baxters), with DeVon Franklin (Woodlawn) and William H. Macy (Fargo), Soul on Fire is set to release exclusively in theaters nationwide October 10, 2025.

The movie begins with John O’Leary reluctantly addressing a troop of Girl Scouts. Public speaking doesn’t come naturally to him, but when one curious girl asks if he would ever undo the fire that changed his life, the question sparks a series of flashbacks that frame the rest of the film. What follows is John’s miraculous journey after a tragic childhood accident left him with burns covering 100 percent of his body and only a 1% chance of survival.

The flashbacks pull no punches in showing the severity of John’s injuries, the heartbreak of his family, and the unimaginable pain of recovery. Burn injuries are among the most devastating, and these scenes carried an extra layer of emotional weight for me. Yet in the middle of suffering, Soul on Fire highlights extraordinary acts of courage and compassion. John’s brother Jim saves him from the fire. His parents never leave his side. His medical team fights tirelessly for his life. Even a janitor’s work proves crucial in preventing infection, a subtle reminder that every act of service matters.

One of the most inspiring relationships portrayed in the film is between John and legendary St. Louis Cardinals announcer Jack Buck. A childhood idol of John’s, Buck becomes an unexpected friend and mentor after visiting him in the hospital. His encouragement and public advocacy—including declaring “John O’Leary Day” at Busch Stadium—play a pivotal role in John’s healing and confidence. As a longtime Cardinals fan myself, seeing this connection on screen was both nostalgic and deeply moving.

What makes Soul on Fire so compelling is its balance of painful honesty and hopeful triumph. We see John wrestle with embarrassment over his scars, his resistance to therapy, and his struggles to fit in. Yet we also see moments of joy: celebrating his release from the hospital to Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’,” learning piano at his mother’s insistence despite losing his fingers, and discovering that love and acceptance are possible through his relationship with Beth, who would become his wife. Their story beautifully mirrors the unconditional love of God—a love that says, “I choose you, scars and all.”

Faith runs through every part of the narrative. From family prayers around the dinner table to John’s anguished “Why me?” spelled out on a hospital board, the film never shies away from pointing to God’s presence in both suffering and triumph. One line from John’s father resonated especially with me: “I love you, son, and there’s nothing you can do about it.” That unconditional love, echoed later in the film, mirrors God’s own relentless grace toward us.

Director Sean McNamara captures both the rawness and the redemptive arc of John’s life, noting that the story is about “turning tragedy into purpose and discovering what’s possible when love shows up in the hardest moments.” And O’Leary himself has called seeing his life on screen “humbling, emotional, and honestly surreal,” reminding viewers that Soul on Fire is ultimately about all of us choosing to live with courage and gratitude.

By the end of the movie, John reflects back on the Girl Scout’s original question—would he undo the fire if he could? His answer is no. Though the accident nearly ended his life, it gave him his calling: to inspire others to live boldly, gratefully, and with purpose. The finale, where John addresses an arena full of people and plays “Amazing Grace” on the piano, is both a tear-jerker and a triumphant exclamation point to his story.

With strong performances, an inspiring soundtrack, and a message of hope at its core, Soul on Fire is one of the most moving films I’ve seen in years. It will stir your heart, challenge your perspective, and leave you believing in the power of faith, community, and perseverance.

As someone who will soon have the privilege of interviewing the real John O’Leary for Kingdom Builder, this film feels even more personal. His testimony has already impacted millions through books, podcasts, and live events, and I believe this movie will multiply that reach even further.

When Soul on Fire hits theaters on October 10, do yourself a favor and go see it. Bring tissues, bring family, and bring an open heart. This is more than just a movie—it’s an encounter with grace, resilience, and the reminder that no matter our scars, God can use our lives to set the world on fire.

Releases: October 10, 2025 (Theatrical)

Running Time: 111 Minutes (AFFIRM Films)

Rated PG (thematic content including burn injuries, some peril and suggestive material.)

Links for Soul On Fire

Website: https://soulonfiremovie.com/

Instagram: @SoulOnFireMovie

Facebook: @SoulOnFireMovie

TikTok: @SoulOnFireMovie

Twitter: @SoulOnFireMovie

YouTube: @SoulOnFireMovie