Soul On Fire, the drama film from director Sean McNamara (Reagan, Soul Surfer), inspired by the life of John O’Leary, will be released in theatres nationwide on October 10, 2025 by Sony Pictures Entertainment’s AFFIRM Films.
The film stars William H. Macy, John Corbett, Joel Courtney, DeVon Franklin, Masey McLain, and Stephanie Szostak.
Soul On Fire is inspired by the true story and 2016 bestselling book On Fire by John O’Leary. O’Leary’s story begins with his miraculous recovery from a near death accident when he was 9-years-old. Given no chance of survival, John endures an unbelievable road to recovery with the support of his family, faith, community and the kindness of his all-time idol, Baseball Hall of Fame Announcer Jack Buck. Grateful for his miracle and shaped by life’s struggles, John’s mission to better the world inspires millions to do the extraordinary.
The book which inspired this film, On Fire: The 7 Choices to Ignite a Radically Inspired Life, became an instant #1 national bestseller in 2016. The book was translated into 12 languages for international readers. O’Leary describes the film adaptation as “an awesome testament to the profound impact one life has on others. It’s a celebration of the everyday heroes and a reminder that when we finally shift from focusing on personal imperfections to accepting the gift our life already is, amazing things can happen.”
“I make movies about miracles. I believe in miracles. John O’Leary is a walking miracle. I’ve been blessed to film his extraordinary story that has inspired people to overcome extreme loss. While making Soul On Fire I watched John speak to a group of ‘Wounded Warriors’ and was blown away at his speaking talents, and his ability to transform lives by telling them his amazing story detailed in his book, On Fire. I can’t wait to share with the world the story of John O’Leary’s miraculous life,” says Director and Producer Sean McNamara.
The film’s screenplay was adapted from the book by Gregory Poirier. Producers include J. Todd Harris, Margaret French Isaac, David Brookwell and Sean McNamara. Executive Producers are Linda Blum Huntington, John O’Leary, Michael Riney, Quirsis Riney, Terry Schnuck, and Gregory Poirier. Amy Powers and Toni Farina serve as Co- Producers.