Wesley, a shortened version of "Wesleydale", is a name with an Anglo-Norman etymology. The "wes" portion of the name refers to the Western cardinal direction, while the word "lea" refers to a field, pasture, or other clearing in a forest. Thus, the name's origin refers to a "western lea," or a field to the west.
The name was predominantly used as a surname until John Wesley, founder of the Methodist church, inspired some parents to name their sons after him while also retaining the parents' own surname.
Wesley is a 2009 biopic about John Wesley and Charles Wesley, the founders of the Methodist movement. The movie is based largely on the Wesley brothers' own journals, including John's private journal which was kept in a shorthand-like code that was not translated until the 1980s by Dr. Richard Heitzenrater at Duke Divinity School.
The movie covers the critical period of John Wesley's life as he struggles with his own doubts and insecurities, leading up to his life-changing Aldersgate experience and the early development of the Methodist movement.
The movie was filmed in a number of authentic 18th century locations in and around Winston-Salem,NC., including St. Paul's Episcopal Church.
Unusual for a lower-budget independent film, the movie features an original orchestral score recorded by a full orchestra. The score, composed by Bruce Kiesling, uses snippets of Wesley hymns and portions composed to echo authentic 18th century style. Kiesling, who has composed scores for a number of other films, is currently conductor of the Tulare County Orchestra in California.
Wesley is a given name and a surname.
Wesley may also refer to: