Soul on Fire (2025)

Two different movies, apparently: critics ranked Soul on Fire below most films, audiences put it near the top, and that gap tells you what kind of film this is. It’s the true story of John O’Leary, a St. Louis kid who survived burns over his entire body, adapted from his own book, On Fire. James McCracken plays young John, Joel Courtney plays him grown, and John Corbett and Stéphanie Szostak play his parents, Dennis and Susan. William H. Macy turns up as Jack Buck, the voice of the Cardinals, and effects rebuild the old round Busch Memorial Stadium, a sweet touch for locals. Critics landed at 67% on Rotten Tomatoes, which is polite, not passionate. A 6.3 because the real story is remarkable and the reviews say the movie around it is just okay. $9,086 says old Cardinals highlights are playing on your phone by midnight, fan or not.

What works: The real-life story is remarkable, and St. Louis touches like Jack Buck and the rebuilt old Busch Stadium give it a hometown feel.

What doesn’t: Critics were lukewarm and ranked it below most movies, so expect a sincere, straightforward telling rather than a surprising one.

Who it’s for: Cardinals fans, St. Louis locals, and anyone who reaches for inspirational memoirs.