Review of The Way (2010) by Walter M — 03 Aug 2013

When Daniel(Emilio Estevez, who also wrote, directed and produced) dies on a hike across the Pyrenees, his father Tom(Martin Sheen), an eye doctor, goes to France to identify his body. He also informs Captain Henri(Tcheky Karyo) that he wants his son cremated. But not so it is easier to transport his remains back to the States. Rather, Tom's intent is to finish Daniel's hike on the Camino de Santiago, spreading his ashes along the way, with Joost(Yorick van Wageningen), a friendly Dutchman with his own portable pharmacy, for company.

"The Way" has certain things going for it like excellent cinematography which takes full advantage of the scenic locations and more than its fair share of history. But this sentimental movie can never quite transcend being a travelogue to become either a compelling story or character study, for if no other reason than you are never in good company. Maybe if we had seen more of somebody with devout beliefs, considering this is supposed to be a pilgrimage, after all. As far as Tom goes, it might help the movie dramatically for him to start out right away but it would have made more sense if he returned home to think things out while on his daily ten mile walk.