The First Saturday in May

2007, Documentary, 1h 36m

26 Reviews 250+ Ratings

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critics consensus

This touching documentary about the horses and trainers behind the Kentucky Derby leads up to the two most exciting minutes in sports. Read critic reviews

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The First Saturday in May Photos

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Movie Info

Filmmakers Brad and John Hennegan observe horse trainers and thoroughbreds prepare for the Kentucky Derby.
  • Rating:
    PG-13 (Brief Strong Language)
  • Genre:
    Documentary
  • Original Language:
    English
  • Director:
    Brad Hennegan
  • Release Date (Theaters):
     limited
  • Release Date (Streaming):
  • Box Office (Gross USA):
    $124.3K
  • Runtime:
  • Distributor:
    Truly Indie

Cast & Crew

Brad Hennegan
Director

Critic Reviews for The First Saturday in May

All Critics (26) | Top Critics (16) | Fresh (18) | Rotten (8)

View All Critic Reviews (26)

Audience Reviews for The First Saturday in May

  • Nov 20, 2010
    "The First Saturday in May" is a moderately interesting documentary that follows six horses and their trainers on the path towards the Holy Grail of racing, The Kentucky Derby. But since this was 2006 and the year of Barbaro, there were no happy endings that year. While 20 horses may seem like a lot for a race(it probably is), that is nothing compared to the amount of horses out there whose owners and trainers dream of competing at the top level. However, with the movie's eyes on the prize, there is little new insight into horse racing, outside of it being a family business, more or less.(By comparison, I learned more from an episode of "The Glades.") Admittedly, I am kicking myself for not visiting Churchill Downs when I had the chance several years back. And there are some nice stories like Dan Hendricks, one of the trainers, who was paralyzed from the chest down in an accident but continues to work and even rides occasionally.
    Walter M Super Reviewer
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