A "First of May" is someone in his first season with a circus. Eleven-year-old Cory (Dan Byrd) is a foster child nobody wants. Carlotta (Academy Award®-nominee Julie Harris) is an elderly woman the world has forgotten... more ». Together, they find friendship and family when they join a traveling circus, and show "what an old has-been and a First of May can do." Hollywood legend Mickey Rooney costars as excitable circus owner, Boss Ed, with Charles Nelson Reilly as the clown who takes Cory under his wing, and Baseball Hall of Famer and 20th century icon Joe DiMaggio in his memorable last screen appearance as kindly stranger who offers Cory baseball tips and encouragement Winner of the Best of Fest award at the Chicago International Children's Film Festival, The First of May is that rare family film that will touch viewers of all ages.« less
Sharon F. (Shar) from AVON PARK, FL Reviewed on 1/25/2022...
Thoroughly enjoyed this family movie. It took a long time to figure out the title, though! 111 minutes of joy and a little heartache. Great family entertainment that the adults will love too. I highly recommend this movie.
Buck L. (Suntydt) from TAZEWELL, TN Reviewed on 7/15/2013...
This was a great little movie. You weren't sure where it was going or how it would turn out after the obvious beginning and it just got better. Had me in tears at the end. Highly recommend to anyone who wants movie that is JUST shy two hours in length (missed it by 9 minutes). Don't see very many movies that are clean, entertaining AND last more than an hour and a half without commercials.
Pamela A. from WHEELING, WV Reviewed on 9/18/2012...
Really enjoyed watching this one! So rare to find a movie that is wholesome anymore!
This is well worth a watch!!
1 of 1 member(s) found this review helpful.
Chuck or Frances M. from WHEELING, WV Reviewed on 4/30/2012...
Great family film. When a foster child is befriended by an older woman they run away and join the circus and find true friends. I loved this movie and highly recommend.
2 of 2 member(s) found this review helpful.
Marleen M. from WHEELING, WV Reviewed on 4/28/2012...
This is a wonderful family movie that I really enjoyed. When a little boy runs away and joins the circus he finds a family that loves him and one that wants him.
2 of 2 member(s) found this review helpful.
Dixie H. Reviewed on 9/26/2011...
If you are looking for a wonderful family movie this is it. It is about life, loss, love, second chances. A foster child is passed around and longs for a permanent home Now I will have to say being a former child protective worker it is not very realistic in how we placed children. We don't just drop children off, but that being said, it really is a heartwarming movie. It follows the adventure of a child, an older woman who has no family, and some great characters who are part of the circus.
1 of 1 member(s) found this review helpful.
Movie Reviews
Best Family Movie I've Seen
Mr. Sean A. Brown | St. Charles MO USA | 03/16/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I just watched this movie on a movie channel in London. Made me laugh and made me cry. This is one of the BEST family movies I have seen in a LONG time. May can't get here soon enough for me to get this movie for my family."
One of the greatest family movies I've ever seen !!! A+
QT4SHRT | 04/28/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I watched The First of May for the first time a few years back when it aired on HBO family channel and let me tell you, I just fell in love with this movie. This is one of the greatest family movies I have ever seen and a must have for anyone who enjoys clean fun family movies. I can't say enough about it. I'm so excited about it coming out on dvd and I can't wait to recieve mine. You will love this movie!!!"
Top quality, pro-family entertainment
K. Wilson | Charlotte, NC USA | 12/27/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This is one of the best pro-family movies I have ever seen: an all star cast with a first class message; beautifully acted and directed. Super-clean fun. A must-have for your family's video library!"