Wow. Just wow.
To be bold but unmistakably certain, I tell you that I saw the best movie of my life on Saturday afternoon – The Way.
You know how I get. I experience something great and must shout it to the world. Some say I exaggerate.
The first thing I did when I got home from seeing The Way was to call my mother and order her to grab her purse and head to the theater immediately. I sent enthusiastic text messages to a couple of people.
At a dinner party that night I cornered everyone in the room, one by one, and gushed, imploring friends to go and see it right away.
The same thing at church on Sunday morning. I had heard about the movie from several church friends, so I tried to avoid preaching to the converted.
People first asked what it was about, then urged me to not reveal too much: “What was it about? No, don’t tell me,” was how each exchange typically went.
One person said, “Tell me in just one sentence. No more.” Me, one sentence? Are you kidding?
I hadn’t seen a single preview for The Way before the lights went down, so truly I knew very little. In fact, going back just now and viewing the trailer online, I’d suggest to anyone who hasn’t seen a preview to refrain. Just go.
Also, see The Way with someone if you can. My father had invited me to go with him last weekend and I had to decline. I wish I had gone with him. I’d still have seen it again with Saturday’s companions.
I will tell you I cried many times in two hours, once or twice with sadness but mostly with a full and happy heart.
I won’t tell you what it’s about, or even the premise. I’ll simply tell you what came to light for me, what I observed about life. If you don’t want to know even that much, stop reading here.
- The world is a journey on which we encounter those from distant places and differing mindsets, carrying a vast array of burdens, dreams, goals and vulnerabilities. This seems haphazard, but it could not be more deliberate.
- As we travel the journey—sometimes walking alone, other times huddled tightly together—we must take turns carrying each other’s baggage, lightening each other’s load.
- There are times when we need to rest before the next scheduled stop; other times when we need to feel our momentum and blow right past it.
- There will be times when we hurt or disappoint each other; times when we hurt or disappoint ourselves. Times when we surprise each other and ourselves.
- Sometimes when it appears we have failed, we have really prevailed.
Buen camino.
Word Nymph 
We will go see it asap! Thx!!!
Bruce, you will love it. I promise. Go before it’s gone. Must see in theater, not DVD.
“Some say I exaggerate.” You are so funny.
Well you have certainly caught my attention. I rarely go see movies, but will try to see this one now.
I am glad it’s not just me. I was ranting about “The Way” after church a few weeks ago – practically grabbing people and telling them to run immediately to the theater!
Yep, it’s a life story; one we should all experience, I’ve done it so it’s easy to talk AND I’ve seen it too. Wonderful movie, deserves all the credits it’s getting and adoration.
One very strong thing that struck me (whilst doing it) is it is the contra to terrorism! Each one of us has to share, burdens, stories, food and water.
Go see it!! (and do it if you get the chance!).
So glad you enjoyed it! In May of this year I walked 12 days of my camino from Roncevalles to Burgos withh four other gals: two daughters, 50 & 49; a cousin 64 & a friend, 41years old. I was 73. What an experience and adventure we had. We were known on the camino as those ‘five crazy canadian camino sisters’! We met and made friends with so many fellow pellargrinos and strive to stay in touch with many of them. I have seen The Way – the movie twice and all your observations are spot on. If you can I heartily recommend making your own camino. If I could do it at 73….anyone can!
Janet…You are inspiring. Good for you!
Thanks for you review. I too saw The Way – my wife and I went the first weekend. Thanks to Facebook/You Tube previews I fell in love with the imagery and personal parallels. Martin Sheen is superb, and Emilio Estevez is a treasure, a master of his craft. I am now plotting my own Camino – I don’t know when, but I do know I will make my way. I feel compelled to give thanks & praise for an exciting, rollercoaster ride of life – what a compelling goal to do so.
And great inspiration from Janet!
Thanks,
Papa
Thanks for the review. I too have seen the movie (3 times actually) and bought the soundtrack. It is truly an inspiration to watch. I wish is was out in more theaters. I can’t wait for it to come out on DVD.
Now ANOTHER movie I need to see.