Must every character be so *beep* stereotyped?

Agreed, Sheen's character wasn't real likeable, but in all fairness, he was pretty touchy from having to cope with the recent death of his son, and probably just wanted to be left alone. So it's understandable that he didn't want to be bugged by those other people on the pilgrimage. If I were in his shoes I'm sure I'd feel (and act) in similar fashion.

And, even if he hadn't lost his son, you couldn't blame him for being unfriendly to those three other loonies that glommed on to him - the Dutch guy was a self-centered stoner, the Canadian woman was a cynical b!tch, and the Irish guy was a blithering fool. All three of them were way too talkative. Again, *I* wouldn't want to be stuck with any of them if I were on a hike or pilgrimage.

Stereotyped? You do realize this is based on a book right? The Camino is
supposed to change people, it is The Pilgrimage of St. James (The Apostle).
The book is based on the experience of the author.

I think it is a wonderful film. I now have goal to make the trip myself. It gives me the reason to complete my physical therapy. I needed a "carrot" to inspire me. Struck down from injuries and Rheumatoid Arthritis I can no longer jog, do aerobics or ride my bike but I can walk. I first get my injuries worked on and get them the best they an be, then I train, and then I get my medication regiment figured out and then I go!

I didn't see stereotypes in these characters, just MHO. I agree with the other commenters that the Dad was surely grieving and not sharing his grief with strangers, so he came off as rude and he did act like a know-it-all at times. That was one of the things I loved, especially in the one cafe scene where he orders the dish incorrectly because it's called by a different name where he's currently at, and the Dutch guy tries to tell him but he's so sure he's right, he does it his way than has to "eat crow". It was so subtle and quietly funny. I think the other characters glommed onto him because they sensed his strength and they were all in need in some way, even if they didn't know it. And what he couldn't give his son, support and acceptance (even if you can't understand someone or the way they choose to live their life) you accept them for who they are - he was able to grow as a person and give that to these people. And it was his son that gave him the opportunity to see the world from a new perspective and grow as a human. Its just my opinion, but I really enjoyed this film.