Wesley: A Heart Transformed Can Change the World

Based on the journals of Charles and John Wesley (the latter considered the founder of Methodism, although he was an Anglican cleric), this biopic illustrates John Wesley's personal triumphs and trials, stemming from his strong faith in God. Sent from England to America in 1735 as a missionary, a young and somewhat self-righteous Wesley (Burgess Jenkins) faced his earliest spiritual challenges in what would later become the state of Georgia. A believer in the importance of works to achieve salvation and conflicted over whether man can be simultaneously devoted to God and woman, Wesley rejects his first love, Sophia Hopkey (Carrie Anne Hunt), at great personal and spiritual cost, eventually returning to England under duress—a changed man, with a new perspective on salvation. As in many stories of redemption, Wesley finds new dimensions in his faith and alters his approach. After being rejected from formal churches for preaching about the equality and dignity of the common people, Wesley takes his inspired message to the streets—even converting those sent to do him harm. His passion ultimately sparked a revolution of sorts that lives on to this day in a number of Christian denominations. Directed by John Jackman, Wesley features a top-notch cast that includes June Lockhart as John's mother, R. Keith Harris as Charles, and the late Kevin McCarthy as an Anglican bishop. DVD extras include audio commentary by the director, a behind-the-scenes featurette, and a bloopers reel. Highly recommended. Editor's Choice. Aud: P. (C. Block)