Key Takeaways
- A Story of Survival and Faith: At just nine years old, John O’Leary survived burns over his entire body, defying every medical expectation through faith, family, and perseverance.
- Hollywood’s Return to Inspirational Storytelling: Director Sean McNamara captures O’Leary’s real-life journey in Soul on Fire, blending authenticity and emotion to remind audiences of the power of hope.
- A Message That Transcends Generations: O’Leary hopes viewers leave the theater inspired to face their own challenges with courage—proving that even life’s darkest moments can ignite extraordinary purpose.
From director Sean McNamara, known for Reagan and Soul Surfer, the new Sony Pictures and Affirm Films release Soul on Fire tells the remarkable true story of John O’Leary, a man who turned tragedy into triumph. Based on O’Leary’s 2016 bestselling book On Fire, the film follows his journey from a devastating childhood accident to a life of purpose and inspiration.
At just 9 years old, O’Leary suffered burns over 100% of his body after a house fire nearly claimed his life. Doctors gave him no chance of survival, but through faith, family, and community support—including encouragement from Baseball Hall of Fame announcer Jack Buck—he overcame the impossible. His recovery and outlook on life have inspired millions around the world.
Watch the official trailer:
In a recent interview with Fintech TV, O’Leary shared that he was hesitant to let his story be turned into a movie. “I wanted to live an ordinary life,” he said, but his growing passion for public speaking and helping others led him to embrace the project. He became actively involved in production, ensuring the film stayed true to his story, even being filmed in meaningful locations like his childhood home and the church where he married his wife.
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O’Leary hopes audiences walk away from Soul on Fire with renewed faith in hope, love, and resilience. “What a gift,” his late father told him after seeing the film—words that perfectly capture the heart of a story that proves miracles still happen.