The Way (2010)

Set against the vibrant and transformative landscape of the El Camino de Santiago, "The Way" paints a compelling portrait of the human spirit, its capacity for resilience, and the power of shared journeys. The film tells the story of Tom Avery, a California-based ophthalmologist, who grapples with the untimely death of his son, Daniel. Their relationship, strained by differing life perspectives, is further complicated by Daniel's decision to abandon his post-graduate studies to embark on the 800km pilgrimage known as The Way of Saint James. The news of Daniel's tragic death in a storm outside of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port in the French Pyrenees jolts Tom out of his comfortable Californian life. In his grief, he decides, against his physical capabilities and lapsed Catholic beliefs, to complete the pilgrimage his son had started. Using Daniel's untouched gear and carrying his son's ashes, Tom embarks on a journey that is as much about grieving and self-discovery as it is about walking the historic path. Tom's solitude is punctured by an unlikely quartet of fellow pilgrims. An affable Dutchman named Joost, a introspective Canadian woman, and a witty Irish writer wrestling with writer's block become his unexpected companions. Each of them, like Tom, are on the pilgrimage for deeply personal, transformative reasons. Amidst the challenges of the grueling trek and the surprising, often amusing, experiences they share, these misfits form an enduring bond. "The Way" is an enlightening exploration of family, friendship, and the complexities of life. Through this pilgrimage, Tom not only honors his son's desire to live life fully, but also learns to reconcile with his past, understand his son's choices, and rediscover what it means to be a part of the global human tapestry. The journey illuminates the stark difference between the life we lead and the life we choose, weaving a poignant tale of loss, discovery, and shared humanity.

The Way is an adventure movie featuring Martin Sheen.

It is possible to buy The Way on Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Vudu and YouTube.