The New Newton Movie: 'The Big Cigar' Tells the True Story of Huey Newton's Escape to Cuba'

Get ready for a wild and thrilling ride with AppleTV+'s latest limited series, 'The Big Cigar', which premieres on May 17. Based on a true story, this incredible tale follows the escapades of Black Panther co-founder Huey Percy Newton as he escapes from the FBI to Cuba with the help of famous film producer Bert Schneider.

The show stars André Holland as Newton and Alessandro Nivola as Schneider, known for his work on counter-culture films like 'Easy Rider' and 'Five Easy Pieces'. The series is executive produced by Don Cheadle, who will also direct some episodes. Joshuah Bearman's magazine article served as the inspiration for this project, and he will also serve as an executive producer.

For those unfamiliar with Newton's story, here's a brief background: the Black Panthers rose to international prominence during the 1960s social upheaval, with Newton becoming a symbol of the angry, gun-carrying black militant. However, in 1974, facing assault and murder charges, Newton fled to Cuba for three years.

The showrunner is Janine Sherman Barrois, known for her work on 'Claws' and 'Self-Made'. The series will also feature Tiffany Boone, Mark Menchaca, Moses Ingram, and P.J. In addition to Holland and Nivola, the cast boasts an impressive lineup of actors.

This true story is too good to be true: Newton's escape plan involved a fake movie production, 'The Cigar', which was cooked up by Schneider as a cover story. The show promises to deliver an impossibly elaborate caper that goes wrong in every way possible.

Fans of the Black Panther Party will be thrilled to see this remarkable chapter in the organization's history brought to life on screen. With its unique blend of politics, drama, and action, 'The Big Cigar' is sure to captivate audiences worldwide. Don't miss the premiere on May 17 only on AppleTV+.

Newton movie movies counter