| January 13, 2026 WHAT A major St. Louis film moment is unfolding on a massive stage: Soul on Fire, filmed in St. Louis and rooted in a compelling local story, is currently ranked No. 2 on Netflix. The film’s surge to the top of the platform marks a major milestone not only for the production but also for the St. Louis region’s expanding visibility and momentum as a competitive destination for film and television productions. WHY IT MATTERS A Netflix Top 10 breakout is significant for any film. Ranking No. 2 reflects exceptional audience demand and cultural reach, and it places St. Louis in front of millions of viewers in a way that few marketing efforts can replicate. In this film, St. Louis is not simply the backdrop; the city’s people, places and spirit help shape the storytelling. MISSOURI INCENTIVE MILESTONE Soul on Fire also holds the historic distinction of being the first film to utilize Missouri’s Motion Media Production Tax Incentive, a major proof point for the state’s ability to attract high-quality productions and deliver a film-friendly experience from start to finish. QUOTE: KELLEY HIATT, MANAGER, ST. LOUIS FILM OFFICE “This is an incredible moment for St. Louis and proof of what’s possible when a powerful story is paired with what our film-friendly city can deliver. St. Louis is essentially a character in this film, and audiences are seeing our city’s energy, authenticity and cinematic range on a national platform. Just as important, Soul on Fire was the first film to use Missouri’s Motion Media Production Tax Incentive, which makes this success story even more meaningful for the future of production in our region.” – Kelley Hiatt, Manager, St. Louis Film Office QUOTE: SEAN MCNAMARA, DIRECTOR, SOUL ON FIRE “So thrilled to have shot Soul on Fire in St. Louis where the actual story of John O’Leary took place. It added authenticity, and the city opened its arms and embraced us right from the beginning. From St. Louis University to Bush Stadium, we were treated like royalty. Looking forward to shooting in St Louis again soon.” – Sean McNamara, Director, Soul on Fire WHEN & WHERE Now (Streaming on Netflix) Soul on Fire is currently ranked No. 2 on Netflix (as of January 12, 2026). MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES / STORY ANGLES St. Louis as a film destination: “the city as a character” Missouri film tax credit: early success story and what it unlocks next Local locations featured in the film and how the city supported production What this moment signals about the region’s creative economy TO REQUEST For interviews or additional details, contact Catherine Neville at cneville@explorestlouis.com or Rachel Huffman at rhuffman@explorestlouis.com. |
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