Although May Day is not a federal holiday in the United States, which is different from Labor Day, is considered the national holiday that recognizes and celebrates the achievements of workers and marks the end of summer.
Many use this day to celebrate the change of season and the beginning of spring. Traditionally, there have been folkloric celebrations, but many choose to make their own plans…
One of the most common activities is to have a movie marathon featuring popular and critically acclaimed titles, such as Erin Brockovich, which starred Julia Roberts and earned her an Oscar.
Best movies to watch on May Day on streaming
Norma Rae (1979) – The film is based on the true story of Crystal Lee Sutton, a textile factory worker who becomes a union organizer and fights for workers’ rights. It’s a powerful narrative about labor organization and resistance.
Available for purchase or rental via Apple TV+.
Erin Brockovich (2000) – Although not exclusively about factory work, this film tells the true story of Erin Brockovich, a legal assistant who battles a powerful company over environmental pollution and the rights of affected individuals. It highlights the importance of the fight for social justice.
Available on Netflix.
Salt of the Earth (1954) – Inspired by a real strike of Mexican-American miners in New Mexico, this film portrays the struggle of agricultural workers for racial and gender equality. It is notable for its depiction of solidarity and resistance.
Available on Fubo, Prime Video, MGM+, iNDIEFLIX, FlixFling, Tubi, Kanopy and Classix.
On the Waterfront (1954) – This classic directed by Elia Kazan addresses themes of unionism and corruption on the docks of New Jersey. It’s an intense drama following the story of a former boxer turned longshoreman and his confrontation with the corrupt union.
Available on Max.
Made in Dagenham (2010) – Based on true events, this British film tells the story of female workers at a Ford factory in Dagenham who fight for equal pay between men and women. It’s an inspiring film about the struggle for labor and gender equity.
Available for purchase or rental via Apple TV+, Prime Video and Vudu.
Suffragette (2015) – Although it focuses on the fight for women’s rights, this film shows the importance of activism and resistance in the struggle for equality. It is a powerful reminder of the role of social struggles in history.
Available for purchase or rental via Apple TV+, Prime Video and Vudu.
The Insider (1999) – This film is based on real events and follows the story of Jeffrey Wigand, a scientist who becomes a whistleblower against the tobacco industry by exposing harmful practices detrimental to public health. It addresses the struggle for truth and integrity against powerful corporations.
Available on Hulu.
North Country (2005) – Inspired by real events and starring Charlize Theron, it tells the story of a miner who faces sexual harassment at work and decides to sue the company for gender discrimination. It’s a powerful film that addresses issues of equality and justice in the workplace.
Available on Kanopy and Hoopla.
The Grapes of Wrath (1940) – Based on John Steinbeck’s novel, this film directed by John Ford follows a family of farmers displaced during the Great Depression in search of work and dignity. It’s a touching portrayal of the hardships faced by migrant workers in America.
Available for purchase or rental via Apple TV+, Prime Video and Vudu.
Pride (2014) – Although set in the UK, the film is based on the true story of a group of LGBT activists who support striking miners during Margaret Thatcher’s government in the 1980s. It’s an inspiring story about solidarity and unity among different groups fighting for their rights.
Available for purchase or rental via Apple TV+, Prime Video and Vudu.
