Are the differences between Shiite Islam and Sunni Islam as huge as many people seem to imply?

In my opinion, there really are major differences in the two sects. However, on the other hand, I believe that if one were to consider the similarities, rather than the differences, one would have found a lot of them as well. I really think that the fire of hatred that is being aired between the followers of the two sects (especially in Pakistan) is completely out of place and should be strictly avoided. Nevertheless, this does not mean that I view the differences in the two sects as trivial.

To summarize, I believe that although there are major differences in the two sects, it should be sought to resolve these differences, through propagation of what is right, rather than through calling each other "Kaafir" or taking each other's lives.