🔥Soul on Fire (2025) – A Story of Survival, Faith & the Power of Kindness | Cast, Plot & Release Date Details

Boxofficehype
Jul 14
3 min read

Soul on Fire — A Story of Survival, Faith, and the Power of Kindness

Release Date: October 10, 2025

Studio: Sony Pictures Releasing

Genre: Biographical Drama

Director: Sean McNamara

Based on: On Fire: The Seven Choices to Ignite a Radically Inspired Life by John O’Leary

In a world that often feels consumed by chaos, Soul on Fire arrives as a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit. Directed by Sean McNamara (Reagan, Soul Surfer), this heartfelt biographical drama tells the incredible true story of John O’Leary, a boy who was given no chance of survival—yet went on to become a beacon of hope and inspiration for millions.

Based on O’Leary’s best-selling 2016 memoir, the film stars Joel Courtney (The Kissing Booth, Super 8) as John, alongside award-winning actors William H. Macy as legendary sportscaster Jack Buck and John Corbett as John’s supportive father, Dennis.

🔥 The True Story Behind the Film

When John O’Leary was just nine years old, he suffered catastrophic burns in a house fire that left 100% of his body covered in injuries. Doctors gave him less than a 1% chance of survival. What followed was a miraculous journey of endurance and transformation, fueled by unwavering faith, deep family bonds, and the kindness of Jack Buck, a Hall of Fame broadcaster who took a deeply personal interest in John’s recovery.

This act of compassion didn’t just save John's life—it changed the course of it.

Years later, O’Leary’s mission became clear: to use his second chance to ignite passion, purpose, and joy in others. Through Soul on Fire, that message takes center stage on the big screen.

🎬 Meet the Cast

Joel Courtney as John O’Leary – A young man whose life is reshaped by tragedy, perseverance, and grace.
William H. Macy as Jack Buck – A sports icon who becomes an unlikely guardian angel, visiting John in the hospital and giving him reason to fight.
John Corbett as Dennis O’Leary – John’s father, offering quiet strength and courage during the family’s darkest hour.
Stéphanie Szostak, Masey McLain, Natalie Buck, DeVon Franklin, and Iyad Hajjaj round out the cast in supporting roles.
Mikey Cestone plays Jim O’Leary, John's brother.

🎼 Behind the Scenes

With a stirring score by Mark Isham, known for his emotive and uplifting compositions, Soul on Fire is poised to leave a lasting impact on audiences. The film is a collaborative effort between Affirm Films, Branded Pictures Entertainment, and Brookwell McNamara Entertainment.

✨ Why You Should Watch

If you're looking for a film that goes beyond entertainment—one that stirs the soul and reminds you of the goodness that still exists in the world—Soul on Fire is it. It’s about resilience in the face of overwhelming odds, the power of love, and how one act of kindness can spark a movement.

Whether you’ve read John O’Leary’s book or not, this film will speak to your heart.