Watch The First Monday In May

The First Monday in May is a 2016 documentary film that follows the preparations for the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute's annual fashion exhibit and the star-studded gala held on the first Monday in May, which marks the opening of the exhibit. The film showcases the creativity and dedication of the museum's staff and chief curator, Andrew Bolton, as they work on putting together an exhibit called "China: Through the Looking Glass," which explores the influence of Chinese art, culture, and aesthetics on Western fashion.

At the center of the film's narrative is Anna Wintour, the legendary editor-in-chief of American Vogue and co-chair of the Met Gala, who takes viewers behind the scenes of the fashion industry's glitziest event. The film offers a glimpse into her world, her vision, and her relationship with Bolton, as well as her team of assistants, designers, and consultants who help bring her ideas to life.

But The First Monday in May is more than just a fashion or celebrity documentary. It's a meditation on the relationship between art and fashion, on the cultural exchange between East and West, and on the power and influence of museums in shaping our understanding of the world. The film juxtaposes footage of the Costume Institute's preparations with iconic images of Chinese landscapes, art, and cinema, as well as interviews with scholars, artists, and curators who reflect on the legacy and relevance of Chinese culture.

One of the film's most powerful moments is the contrast between Bolton's meticulous approach to curating the exhibit and John Galliano's frenetic creative process as he designs the dress that Rihanna will wear to the Met Gala. Galliano, the controversial but brilliant designer who was the creative director of Dior and later Maison Margiela, was hired by Bolton to add a touch of drama and flair to the exhibit. But his personal struggles, including his addiction and his anti-Semitic rant that led to his dismissal from Dior, add a layer of complexity to his contribution to the film.

Another highlight of The First Monday in May is the behind-the-scenes look at the Met Gala itself, which attracts the biggest names in fashion, entertainment, and politics. From Beyonce to George Clooney, from Kanye West to Hillary Clinton, from Jennifer Lawrence to Justin Bieber, the guest list reads like a who's who of the global elite. But the film doesn't just focus on the glitz and glamour of the red carpet. It shows how the museum uses the event as a fundraiser to support its educational programs and acquisitions, and how the gala itself becomes an artwork, a spectacle, and a critique of the fashion industry.

Overall, The First Monday in May is a beautifully shot, thought-provoking, and entertaining documentary that offers a rare glimpse into the world of high fashion, museum curation, and cultural diplomacy. It celebrates the creative genius of designers like Galliano, the visionary leadership of curators like Bolton, and the commitment of institutions like the Met to promote art, diversity, and dialogue. It also raises important questions about the role of fashion in contemporary society, the ethical issues of cultural appropriation, and the tensions between tradition and innovation. Whether you're a fashionista, an art lover, or a documentary enthusiast, this film is a must-see.

The First Monday In May is a 2016 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1 and a MetaScore of 57.