Soul on Fire Ignites Theaters Nationwide October 10 Wednesday October 8, 2025 By Catherine Neville St. Louis, MO (October 8, 2025) – Following its star-studded world premiere at Powell Hall on October 2, Soul on Fire, a powerful new film based on St. Louis native John O’Leary’s miraculous true story, opens in theaters nationwide October 10. Produced by Affirm Films, a division of Sony Pictures Entertainment, Soul on Fire stars Academy Award nominee William H. Macy and Joel Courtney and is directed by Sean McNamara (Reagan, Soul Surfer). The film brings to life O’Leary’s extraordinary journey from a childhood tragedy to a lifetime mission of hope, resilience and inspiration. Soul on Fire marks a milestone for Missouri’s film industry as the first feature film to use the Missouri Motion Media Production Tax Credit, also known as the Show MO Act, enacted in 2023. The production, filmed primarily in St. Louis, created more than 550 jobs for Missourians and generated nearly $6.9 million in in-state spending. Based on O’Leary’s #1 national bestseller On Fire: The 7 Choices to Ignite a Radically Inspired Life, the film follows nine-year-old John after a near-fatal accident leaves him with burns over 100 percent of his body. With unwavering faith, family support and the encouragement of his hero, Baseball Hall of Fame announcer Jack Buck, John’s story becomes a universal reminder of the power of courage and community. Set against the backdrop of St. Louis, featuring iconic locations from St. Louis University to Tiffany’s Diner to the Gateway Arch, the city itself becomes an integral character in the film, reflecting the heart and resilience that define O’Leary’s journey. Kelley Hiatt, director of the St. Louis Film Office, said, “Soul on Fire spotlights St. Louis in a way that only cinema can. Our neighborhoods, landmarks and spirit shine on screen, proving that our city is ready for more stories like this. The film demonstrates the power of the Show MO Act in supporting productions that create opportunities for local talent and showcase the benefits of filming in St. Louis.” If you’re interested in speaking with Kelley Hiatt on the role that the St. Louis Film Office plays in attracting and supporting TV and film production in St. Louis, we are happy to facilitate an interview. Theatrical Release Details Release Date: October 10, 2025 Distributor: Affirm Films / Sony Pictures Entertainment Where to Watch: Exclusively in theaters nationwide Tickets: www.soulonfiremovie.com/tickets ###About the St. Louis Film Office The St. Louis Film Office is the official liaison between the film industry and the St. Louis community. Committed to promoting the St. Louis area as a film-friendly destination and attracting film productions to our vibrant region, the St. Louis Film Office strives to facilitate a seamless experience for filmmakers, providing them with the necessary resources, support and local talent to bring their creative visions to life. Share
