Was "Man on Fire" based on a true story?

"Man on Fire" was not based on a true story. The film was based on A. J. Quinnell's 1980 novel of the same name and is the second adaptation of the story, following a 1987 film.

"Man on Fire" was directed by Tony Scott and stars Denzel Washington as CIA Agent John W. Creasy. Other cast members of the film include Dakota Fanning as Guadalupe "Pita" Ramos and Christopher Walken as Paul Rayburn. The original adaptation of the film starred Scott Glenn as Creasy and bore far less resemblance to the original novel. Quinnell praised Washington's portrayal of Creasy, although critics gave the film mixed reviews overall.