New movie ‘Soul on Fire’ is a ‘display of the Gospel,’ actress Masey McLain says

Two lead actors in the new movie Soul on Fire say the film is filled with biblical themes that will inspire audiences to deepen their faith. 

The PG title opens in theaters on Friday Oct. 10. 

Based on a true story, it follows the story of John O’Leary, who suffers burns over 100% of his body during a tragic childhood accident yet finds the strength to persevere thanks to his faith and the unwavering support of family and friends. 

The film stars Joel Courtney (Jesus Revolution) as O’Leary, Masey McLain (The Baxters) as his wife Beth, DeVon Franklin (Breakthrough) as his nurse and William H. Macy as broadcaster Jack Buck, who reaches out to encourage O’Leary. John Corbett (My Big Fat Greek Wedding) portrays his father. 

Sean McNamara, the same filmmaker behind Soul Surfer and On a Wing and Prayer, directed Soul on Fire. 

“I immediately think of Job,” Courtney told The Lion, referencing the biblical book and character. “Everyone around [Job] telling him [to] curse God and move on.”  

Similar to Job, O’Leary endured suffering but persevered, Courtney said. Today, O’Leary is a bestselling author, podcaster and well-known motivational speaker. He lost his fingers in the tragedy. 

“He could have taken his circumstances into account and said, ‘Why me?’ But he flipped that around through life,” Courtney said. 

Through the help of his parents, his friends and his wife, O’Leary’s “faith blossomed” and he accepted God’s will for his life, Courtney said. 

“He said yes to speaking and sharing his story. Faith just plays such a huge part [in the film],” Courtney said, before reflecting on the honor of portraying O’Leary. 

“As a Christian, it always is a special time for me to get to play someone of faith. And this has been a career highlight film for me.” 

McLain, who also starred in the faith-based film I’m Not Ashamed, said Soul on Fire is a “display of the Gospel,” with person after person sacrificing to care for O’Leary. 

“God looked at us in our brokenness … and says, ‘I choose you. I love you so much that I sent my Son to die for you. And I choose you in your worst.’ And I just think this film is a beautiful display of what the Gospel is in just a subtle way, but it’s a picture of it,” McLain told The Lion.  

O’Leary’s story, she said, will encourage audiences.  

“I hope people leave knowing whatever has been stolen [in their life], God can replenish – and whatever has been killed, He can resurrect. Whatever has been destroyed, He can rebuild,” McLain said. “A big part of that is turning to Him. He has an abundant life for us. We have to choose that, because we can stay in the rubble of our destruction and the things that have happened to us – or we can choose that no, there is more, and I do have hope.” 

Soul on Fire is rated PG for thematic content including burn injuries, some peril and suggestive material. 

Image Credit: John O’Leary (Facebook)