Soul on Fire: John O'Leary's Inspiring True Story Lights Up the Big Screen

Hey movie buffs! Get ready for a truly powerful and inspiring film that just hit the big screen: "Soul on Fire." This movie tells the unbelievable true story of John O'Leary, a St. Louis native who faced unimaginable tragedy as a child and emerged with a message of hope that's touching millions.

TL;DR: Quick Takes on "Soul on Fire"

Real-Life Inspiration: "Soul on Fire" is based on John O'Leary's bestselling memoir "On Fire," chronicling his miraculous recovery from severe burns as a child.
Star-Studded Cast: Joel Courtney plays the adult John O'Leary, with Hollywood heavyweights like William H. Macy as legendary sportscaster Jack Buck and John Corbett as John's dad.
A Love Letter to St. Louis: The film was shot entirely in St. Louis, making the city a vibrant "character" in John's moving journey of survival and purpose.

From Childhood Tragedy to a Message That Spreads Worldwide

Imagine being just nine years old, playing in your garage like any kid, and then—boom. That's what happened to John O'Leary in 1987 when an experiment with gasoline and matches led to a massive explosion. John was launched 20 feet, his entire body engulfed in flames, and the family garage set ablaze. The accident left him with severe burns across 100% of his body, with a staggering 87% being third-degree. Doctors gave him virtually no chance of survival.

But John, against all odds, kept fighting. He spent over five grueling months in the hospital, enduring countless surgeries and painful recoveries. It was during this dark time that an unexpected hero stepped in: Jack Buck, the iconic St. Louis Cardinals sportscaster. Overhearing John's plight, Jack became a beacon of hope, visiting the young boy regularly.

"I listen as my door opens up, footsteps walk in, chair comes across the floor, and then the booming voice of Jack Buck brings light through the darkness. And Jack says to me, 'Kid, wake up. You are going to live, keep fighting.'"

— John O'Leary

Those words, among countless acts of kindness from family, friends, and medical staff, truly saved John's life and set him on a path he never imagined. The film vividly captures these pivotal moments, showing how a community rallied around a boy who refused to give up.

Bringing John O'Leary's Unforgettable Journey to the Big Screen

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"Soul on Fire" features an impressive ensemble cast bringing John's story to life. Joel Courtney (you might know him from "The Kissing Booth" movies) steps into the role of the adult John O'Leary, portraying his struggles and triumphs with heartfelt emotion. As young John, James McCracken shows incredible bravery and vulnerability.

But the casting that really got people talking is the legendary William H. Macy ("Shameless," "Fargo") playing Jack Buck. Macy perfectly embodies the warm, booming voice and inspiring presence of the beloved sportscaster. John Corbett ("Sex and the City," "My Big Fat Greek Wedding") portrays John's supportive father, Denny O'Leary, while Stephanie Szostak plays his devoted mother, Susan. Masey McLain takes on the role of Beth, John's eventual wife, and fun fact: she actually wears Beth O'Leary's real-life wedding dress in the film!

Even the younger actors had unforgettable experiences. Stella Bratcher, a high school sophomore, plays John's sister, Amy O'Leary, and Norah Morley, a middle schooler, has a speaking role as a Girl Scout. Both shared how welcoming the established actors were.

"It was definitely intimidating at first... But honestly, they treated me like a friend."

— Stella Bratcher on working with William H. Macy and John Corbett

Stella even recalled William H. Macy playing the ukulele between scenes—a nice, human touch on set! Norah Morley, who audtioned for a different role, was just thrilled to be part of such an inspiring project. She spoke about how John O'Leary's story motivates her to keep pushing through tough times.

St. Louis: More Than Just a Backdrop, It's a Character

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One of the coolest things about "Soul on Fire" is that it was filmed almost entirely in St. Louis, Missouri. Director Sean McNamara (who also helmed the inspirational "Soul Surfer") was apparently "immediately sold" on the idea, recognizing that the Gateway City was a vital part of John's narrative. This marks the first major film to shoot primarily in St. Louis since 2009, thanks to the newly reinstated "Show MO Act" tax credit.

From iconic landmarks like Busch Stadium and the Old Courthouse to St. Louis University's campus, Chaifetz Arena, and the beautiful Shrine of St. Joseph (where John and Beth married), the film grounds itself deeply in the city's unique spirit. They even shot scenes in John O'Leary's actual former home!

"Every single shot was filmed where the thing happened. That alone will tell you how gripping it was to be part of it, and hopefully, as a viewer, to observe it. It's not Hollywood. It's real. It's St. Louis."

— John O'Leary

This commitment to authenticity truly makes St. Louis shine, giving viewers a genuine sense of the community that rallied around John during his recovery.

The Deeper Meaning Behind John's Journey and the Film

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"Soul on Fire" is more than just a survival story; it's a profound exploration of hope, community, and the human spirit. John's journey wasn't over when he left the hospital; he faced years of physical and emotional healing, including learning to use prosthetic hands after his fingers were amputated. He candidly shares that he buried his past for a long time, even resorting to alcohol in college to cope and keep his scars hidden.

The film delves into his internal battle with feelings of unworthiness and shame, beautifully showcasing how love and faith ultimately helped him surrender to a greater purpose. His father, Denny, plays a crucial role in his emotional healing, offering unconditional love with the powerful line, "I love you, buddy, and there’s nothing you can do about it." (Denny O'Leary sadly passed away in May, but he got to see a screening of the film, which is truly touching.)

John O'Leary, now a bestselling author and motivational speaker, has shared his message with tens of thousands of people, encouraging gratitude and embracing one's God-given potential. He views the film as a "service," a way to share vulnerable parts of his journey so others can find beauty in their own stories. "The story is not about me," he said. "It's about sharing vulnerable pieces of the journey so others can recognize the beauty in their stories."

While often labeled a "faith-based film," "Soul on Fire" offers universal themes of love, resilience, and connection that resonate beyond any specific doctrine. It highlights the unconditional love of family, the tough love of dedicated caregivers, and the self-sacrificial love of people like Jack Buck who stepped up when John needed it most. John O'Leary hopes that viewers will leave the theater recognizing that "God works through all things and all people in all ways, but you gotta be open to it."

What Critics and Audiences Are Saying About "Soul on Fire"

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Critics have noted that "Soul on Fire" delivers on its promise of an uplifting, inspirational true story. Variety described it as "smoothly crafted" and appealing to viewers "seeking a family-friendly 'true story' with an upbeat message about overcoming adversity." While some reviews suggest the film might feel "bland to a fault at times" or "formulaic" for certain audiences, it consistently hits the right notes for those seeking a "feel-good exercise" with familiar narrative beats.

The National Catholic Register highlighted the film's "host of positive depictions of love that Catholics can relate to," emphasizing themes of redemptive suffering, prayer, and surrendering to God's plan. With a runtime of 112 minutes and a PG rating (for thematic content, including burn injuries, some peril, and suggestive material), it's positioned as an accessible film for a wide audience.

Ultimately, John O'Leary hopes the movie will be an "invitation to join us in the faith walk" and a reminder that "God is still God, that prayer still matters, and the best is yet to come." It sounds like a powerful cinematic experience designed to leave you feeling inspired and appreciative of the gifts in your own life.

Frequently Asked Questions About "Soul on Fire"

When did "Soul on Fire" release in theaters? "Soul on Fire" premiered nationwide in theaters on October 10, 2025. Is "Soul on Fire" based on a true story? Absolutely! The movie is based on the real-life experiences of John O'Leary, as chronicled in his bestselling memoir "On Fire: 7 Choices to Ignite a Radically Inspired Life." Who are the main actors in "Soul on Fire"? The film stars Joel Courtney as the adult John O'Leary, James McCracken as young John, William H. Macy as Jack Buck, John Corbett as Denny O'Leary, and Stephanie Szostak as Susan O'Leary. What is "Soul on Fire" rated? "Soul on Fire" is rated PG for thematic content, including burn injuries, some peril, and suggestive material.