The First of May Poster

The First of May 1999

★ 7.17 votes111 min📅 1999-03-20

"An unwanted boy and a forgotten old lady find running away to join the circus is really coming home."

In *The First of May (1999)*, a heartfelt drama from director Paul Sirmons, two lonely souls find unexpected solace in life's most unlikely places.

Director: Paul Sirmons

Cast

Dan Byrd
Dan Byrd
Cory Wainwright
Julie Harris
Julie Harris
Carlotta
Mickey Rooney
Mickey Rooney
Boss Ed
Charles Nelson Reilly
Charles Nelson Reilly
Dinghy
Tom Nowicki
Tom Nowicki
Dan Kepperman
Robin O'Dell
Michelle Kepperman
Gerard Christopher
Gerard Christopher
Zack
Mikki Scanlon
Loralie Cugino
Joe DiMaggio
Joe DiMaggio
Self
Keith Eyles
Keith Eyles
Circus Hand

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The First of May (1999) about?

The film follows Cory, a foster child who has never belonged, and Carlota, an isolated elderly woman, as they find friendship and purpose by joining a traveling circus. Together, they navigate life's challenges while discovering that sometimes, the place we least expect becomes home.

Who directed The First of May?

The movie was directed by Paul Sirmons, who brings a warm, character-driven approach to this heartfelt family drama.

Who stars in The First of May?

The film features Dan Byrd as Cory, Julie Harris as Carlota, with supporting roles from Mickey Rooney, Charles Nelson Reilly, and Robin O'Dell.

Is The First of May (1999) worth watching?

With its gentle pacing and heartfelt themes, *The First of May* offers a charming, nostalgic escape for fans of slice-of-life dramas. While it may not have widespread acclaim, its sincerity and strong performances make it a worthwhile watch for those seeking a feel-good story.

How long is The First of May?

The movie has a runtime of 111 minutes.

The First of May (1999) — A Foster Child and Elderly Woman Find Family in the Circus

In *The First of May (1999)*, a heartfelt drama from director Paul Sirmons, two lonely souls find unexpected solace in life's most unlikely places. Cory, a foster child shunted between homes with no one to call his own, crosses paths with Carlota, an elderly woman whose wisdom and warmth have been overlooked by the world. Their journey takes a magical turn when they stumble upon a traveling circus, where the vibrant chaos of trapeze artists, clowns, and dreamers becomes the backdrop for a bond that feels like coming home. With themes of belonging, resilience, and the beauty of unlikely friendships, this film paints a tender portrait of how even the most forgotten among us can rewrite their own endings.

Set against the colorful, nomadic world of the circus, *The First of May (1999)* is a gentle yet uplifting story about finding family in the unlikeliest of places. The film's emotional core is anchored by standout performances from Dan Byrd as Cory and Julie Harris as Carlota, while screen legends Mickey Rooney and Charles Nelson Reilly add depth and charm. The story's nostalgic atmosphere and heartfelt themes make it a poignant watch for fans of family dramas and feel-good tales.