Martin Sheen shows 'The Way'

The Camino de Santiago is a path taken by Christian pilgrims en route to the Cathedral de Compostela in Galicia, Spain, reputed last resting place of the apostle James (the Greater). Those who have undertaken the journey, including actor Martin Sheen -- star of his son Emilio Estevez' new film, "The Way" -- have experienced a life-altering religious experience. Not always of faith. But certainly of hope.

And hope is what Tom (Sheen) would like to find while walking the picturesque route from France to Spain, which brings him into contact with some other colorful pilgrims, all of whom have problems. The American, Sarah (Deborah Kara Unger) is awash in cynicism; the Irishman, Jack (James Nesbitt) is a blocked writer; Joost (Yorick van Wageningen) is a hard-drinking Dutchman. Tom however is both seeking and escaping: His son (a cameo by Estevez) has been killed during a storm in the Pyrenees while walking the Camino de Santiago. Tom undertakes the journey a crusty, grief-hardened guy. His gradual softening, via Sheen's nuanced performance, is the best part of the film.

For all its good intentions, however, "The Way" is pretty obvious and Estevez's script, while spiritually ambitious, is short on both character-development and surprise. The performances, however -- especially Nesbitt, of whom one never sees enough -- are solid, and while there are plenty of imperfections in "The Way," its flaws will earn it no end of affection.

PLOT During a religious pilgrimage from France to Spain, a grieving father comes to terms with his loss. RATING PG-13 (some thematic elements, drug use, smoking)

CAST Martin Sheen, James Nesbitt, Deborah Kara Unger, Yorick van Wageningen

PLAYING AT Roslyn Cinema

BOTTOM LINE Overly earnest, but so well-meaning one can't help but be touched.