The Big Cigar

Apple TV+ unveiled a captivating six-part series titled 'The Big Cigar' on May 17, 2024. This narrative takes us back to 1974 to unfold the extraordinary tale of Huey P. Newton, the Black Panther Party co-founder, and his daring evasion from the U.S. to find refuge in Cuba. As the FBI leads a countrywide pursuit, Newton looks to the assistance of Bert Schneider, a renowned producer behind hits like Easy Rider, to hatch a plan. Their strategy? To create a cover-up for Newton's escape under the guise of a movie production. The series dives deep into the intricate bond between Newton and Schneider and the hurdles they overcome in this high-stakes mission.

Inspired by a magazine article from 2012 by Joshuah Bearman, who also holds the position of executive producer, 'The Big Cigar' infuses historical context with the excitement of a thriller, giving viewers an insight into a critical episode of U.S. history. Directors Don Cheadle, Damon Thomas, and Tiffany Johnson each contribute their unique perspectives to craft the series.

Andre Holland brings to life the complex figure of Huey P. Newton, portraying both his steadfast resolve and his human frailties. Alessandro Nivola steps into the shoes of Bert Schneider, channeling his persuasive charm and ingenuity. Complementing the main cast are Tiffany Boone, P. J. Byrne, and Marc Menchaca, whose strong performances add layers to the series' vibrant narration.

'Warner Bros. Television' is at the production helm with Janine Sherman Barrois, Jim Hecht, and Joshuah Bearman as executive producers. The narrative is further enriched by Robert Glasper's evocative score. The attention to period detail is brought to life through the lenses of cinematographers Suki Medencevic, Miroslaw Baszak, and Carmen Cabana, pulling the audience into the ambiance of the 1970s. The editorial team, with John Peter Bernardo, Avril Beukes, Kyle Bond, and Rebecca Valente, crafts a fluid storytelling experience, holding the viewer's attention and ramping up the suspense across episodes.

Critics have lauded 'The Big Cigar' for its intrepid narrative approach and the cast's striking performances. This series is exclusively accessible on Apple TV+ for subscribers looking to immerse themselves in a historical narrative infused with intrigue and drama.