New Delhi: The Big Cigar is the latest biographical drama to arrive in Apple TV+’s library. Huey P. Newton, leader of the Black Panther Party, and his daring escape to Cuba are the subjects of the new short historical drama The Big Cigar. In addition to serving as executive producer, Don Cheadle helms this six-part drama.
The series, which stars André Holland as Huey P. Newton, follows the Black Panther leader as he makes his way to Cuba with the help of Bert Schneider.
Are you ready to witness The Black Panther Party, a fake movie production, and a nationwide manhunt? ‘The Big Cigar’ chronicles the true story of Huey P. Netwon’s escape to Cuba. Watch this incredible drama unfold on @AppleTV, premiering May 17, 2024.#NewRelease #TeamSpinVFX pic.twitter.com/fTiY8AMmmm
— Spin VFX (@SpinVFX) May 6, 2024
Plot
The plot revolves around the spectacular escape of Black Panther Party founder Huey P. Newton to Cuba from the clutches of the FBI. Newton set up a daring scheme for fake film production with the help of Hollywood producer Bert Schneider.
Schneider, the producer, was captivated by Newton’s personality and formed an unexpected relationship with him. Initially hesitant, Schneider eventually came up with a film production cover that led to the movie The Big Cigar and helped Newton escape.
The impossible plan throws curveballs at every turn as the escape plays out. The plot stays true to itself despite the frequent setbacks, and it uses inventive and real-life circumstances to help the audience experience the drama.
About Huey P. Newton
A fellow Black Panther Party activist, Huey P. Newton was born in the United States of America. In the beginning, the organization’s stated mission was to work in tandem with the FBI to provide community services; over time, it evolved into a Marxist organization that promoted Black empowerment. Throughout his life, Newton was embroiled in legal troubles. However, his impact on history cannot be overstated. Tyrone Robinson, a drug dealer, and a member of the Black Guerilla Family violently killed him in West Oakland.
Micheaux fam! The advanced screening of @appletv “The Big Cigar” is going down tomorrow at @theculvertheater | 7PM and not only will we be screening the first two episodes of this incredible series based on a true story about Huey P. Newton 🔥 pic.twitter.com/z5urg0Y8OL
— The Micheaux® Film Festival (@MicheauxFilmFst) May 14, 2024
When and Where to Watch?
Premiering on Apple TV+ on May 17, 2024, the 6-episode thriller series ‘The Big Cigar’ will be released weekly thereafter.
In 1974, the biggest Hollywood production wasn’t a scripted movie. It was Huey P. Newton’s escape to Cuba.
The Big Cigar premieres May 17. pic.twitter.com/990YiA8OBr
— Apple TV (@AppleTV) May 11, 2024
Cast and Crew
In the lead roles, André Holland portrays Huey P. Newton and Alessandro Nivola Bert Schneider.
This real tale drama has a stellar cast, including Tiffany Boone (Gwen Fontaine), P.J. Byrne (Steve Blauner), Marc Menchaca (Agent Sydney Clark), Thamela Mpumlwana (Lil Bobby Hutton), and many more.
Producing the show is Janine Sherman Barrois, who is under contract with Warner Bros. Television. Arthur Spector, Joshua Davis, Jim Hecht, and Joshua Bearman are the executive producers, while Don Cheadle directs the series.
