I’ve noticed that many Americans on the Camino Francés cite the movie The Way as their motivation or inspiration to walk. Many hadn’t heard of the Camino until they saw the film. In contrast, most European walkers have never seen it and learned about the Camino through word of mouth. I watched the movie just days before starting my first Camino and enjoyed recognizing sites I had seen on screen. I’ve also heard a rumor that the same team is working on a second movie, this time set on the Camino del Norte. That’s a great reason for anyone considering that route to walk it this summer before it becomes too popular.
I remember you mentioning that Europeans haven't really tapped into this movie. I never watched it, and it certainly didn't motivate me to watch the Camino, but after walking the Camino several times, it feels like home when I can't get away. I can relate with some elements--the aloneness with your mind when distance-walking, stolen items (my friend's backpack), and some of the unusual characters along The Way. Along with the amazing countryside of Spain. What a stunning country!
We all have our own reasons for taking part in the Camino. I only heard about the film just before I left for my journey and I loved it. I loved the connection he made with his deceased son along the way and the amazing characters he met. It's like that, the people you meet and the experience of walking through whatever you are trying to it is you're trying to work through. It's a cathartic experience.
I’ve noticed that many Americans on the Camino Francés cite the movie The Way as their motivation or inspiration to walk. Many hadn’t heard of the Camino until they saw the film. In contrast, most European walkers have never seen it and learned about the Camino through word of mouth. I watched the movie just days before starting my first Camino and enjoyed recognizing sites I had seen on screen. I’ve also heard a rumor that the same team is working on a second movie, this time set on the Camino del Norte. That’s a great reason for anyone considering that route to walk it this summer before it becomes too popular.
I remember you mentioning that Europeans haven't really tapped into this movie. I never watched it, and it certainly didn't motivate me to watch the Camino, but after walking the Camino several times, it feels like home when I can't get away. I can relate with some elements--the aloneness with your mind when distance-walking, stolen items (my friend's backpack), and some of the unusual characters along The Way. Along with the amazing countryside of Spain. What a stunning country!
We all have our own reasons for taking part in the Camino. I only heard about the film just before I left for my journey and I loved it. I loved the connection he made with his deceased son along the way and the amazing characters he met. It's like that, the people you meet and the experience of walking through whatever you are trying to it is you're trying to work through. It's a cathartic experience.