Starring Joel Courtney, William H. Macy, and DeVon Franklin, the Inspiring Film Hits Theaters Nationwide on October 10
AFFIRM Films, a division of Sony Pictures Entertainment, has officially released the trailer for its upcoming film Soul On Fire — a deeply moving cinematic adaptation of the true story of John O’Leary, a burn survivor turned bestselling author and motivational speaker. The film will release exclusively in theaters nationwide on October 10, 2025.
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Directed by Sean McNamara (Soul Surfer, Reagan) and written by Gregory Poirier, Soul On Fire is based on O’Leary’s memoir On Fire. The film chronicles O’Leary’s near-death experience at the age of nine, his unlikely survival, and the extraordinary journey of healing, faith, and purpose that followed.
8The cast includes Joel Courtney (Jesus Revolution), John Corbett (My Big Fat Greek Wedding), Stephanie Szostak (A Million Little Things), Masey McLain (The Baxters), DeVon Franklin (Woodlawn), and Academy Award nominee William H. Macy (Fargo).
“Watching my life unfold on screen has been humbling, emotional, and honestly surreal,” said O’Leary. “Soul On Fire isn’t just about me — it’s about all of us. It’s a reminder of what’s possible when we say yes to life, even after the fire.”
O’Leary’s miraculous recovery — aided by his family, community, and a special visit from baseball legend Jack Buck — becomes the foundation of a life dedicated to inspiring others. His message of resilience and redemption has already touched millions through books, podcasts, and speaking engagements. This film aims to take that story even further.
“John O’Leary’s life is not just inspiring — it’s transformative,” said director Sean McNamara. “As a filmmaker, I was drawn to the raw truth and unshakable hope in his journey. Soul On Fire is about turning tragedy into purpose and discovering what’s possible when love shows up in the hardest moments.”
The movie is produced by J. Todd Harris, Margaret French Isaac, David Brookwell, and Sean McNamara. Executive producers include John O’Leary himself, along with Linda B. Huntington, Terry Schnuck, Michael and Quirsis Riney, and Gregory Poirier.
AFFIRM Films, known for faith-based hits such as Soul Surfer, War Room, and The Forge, continues its mission of telling stories that uplift and inspire. Soul On Fire marks their latest entry in a legacy of films rooted in faith, family, and perseverance.
