Ahem!

Your attention please.

In order to have a true understanding of The Way, a short history lesson is indicated to provide viewers the motives and meanings behind this famous trek.

A stroll along the Appalachian Trail is a reference point, but its evolution is fairly new.

What follows is a survey of this trail, commencing about 44 B.C., and the unfolding mystery behind the walk of Saint James.

The Way of St. James or the Camino de Santiago is the pilgrimage route to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia in northwestern Spain.

It begins from various spots in France and Italy.

It is thought the remains of the apostle Saint James are buried there and honored because he led the effort to defeat the Moors and drive them from Spain.

A UNNESCO World Heritage site, the route now attracts a growing number of modern-day pilgrims from around the globe who, for a host of reasons, take this trail.

This information is relevant in understanding the inspiration that took place when Martin Sheen and his grandson, Tyler Estevez, took part in this pilgrimage.

Concluding the route, a series of discussions began between Sheen and his son, Emilio Estevez, for a movie about the Camino de Santiago.

The results can be seen in this film written, produced and directed by Estevez, examining how unexpected events can compromise, inspire, enrich and even instruct relationships.

The story unfolds as an American doctor, Tom Avery (played by Martin Sheen) goes to France to retrieve the body of his son killed in the Pyrenees during a snow storm as he walked the Camino de Santiago.

This intent is discarded when Avery realizes how little he understood his son and that it's now important to honor his memory by continuing his walk on this spiritual trail.

As he travels he meets three others from all around the world trying to find solutions and meaning to their lives.

Other travelers include Deborah Kara Unger as an angry Sarah who pledges to quit smoking at the end of trek.

James Nesbitt is an Irishman named Jack who is attempting to overcome his writer’s block.

Then there is Yorick van Wageningen, as Joost from Amsterdam, who walks to lose weight and brought mood modifiers along to boost his spirits during the process.

In flashbacks along the route, Emilio Estevez makes brief appearance as Tom’s son, Daniel Avery. This unlikely group of travelers soon learn Tom is depositing his sons remains at sacred spots and doesn’t care to share their company or discuss his actions with them.

One of the most startling effect in the film is the unbelievable scenery that is captured by Estevez – all done with a very small crew and using available light.

The night sequences were filmed using candle light and firelight. The visuals captured are so eye popping and captivating one might want to leave the theater immediately, dial the airline, and book a trip to Spain.

Individuals seen walking on the on the screen were real pilgrims from across the globe, and an actual group of Roma Gypsies were included in one fascinating sequence.

Dr. Tom Avery avoided all socialization until a life changing incident forced humility and understanding from this crusty, grieving man.

Emilio Estevez says the film is "pro people, pro life and not anti anything." Or as they say here in Texas, "y'all come!"

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The Way opens in limited release Friday, October 7th.

Click here to visit the film's official website and view the trailer.

MPAA Rating: PG-13

Photos © 2011 Elixir Films