Television creator Jim Hecht discusses his new drama The Big Cigar for Apple TV+, focusing on the challenges of portraying Black Panther leader Huey P. Newton. They delve into Huey's post-prison struggles, FBI pursuit, and daring escape to Cuba disguised as a movie project. The podcast explores the personal commitment and meticulous casting process, as well as the complexities of depicting Newton's life on screen.
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Quick takeaways
Huey Newton's remarkable escape to Cuba showcases the FBI's pursuit and societal impact.
Transforming Huey Newton's story into a limited series allows for a deeper exploration of his character and relationships.
Deep dives
Exploring Huey Newton's Fascinating Story
Huey Newton's captivating narrative unfolds as he escapes an FBI manhunt after being framed for a murder, making his way to Cuba in a remarkable escape. The creator, Jim Hecht, delves into the origins of his interest in Newton, stemmed from his graduate thesis, and the incredible impact Newton had on changing societal dialogue and agendas through his actions. The tale weaves together elements of political theory, civil disobedience, and the complexities of social movements, culminating in Newton's escape and the intense pursuit by the FBI to undermine him.
Crafting a Limited Series on Huey Newton's Life
The decision to transform Huey Newton's story into a limited series stemmed from the richness and depth of his character, overcoming the limitations faced when trying to portray his life in a feature film. By extending the narrative into a longer format, the creators could delve deeper into the Panthers, Huey's background, and the intricate relationships within the story. The focus shifted towards showcasing a nuanced portrait of a revolutionary in crisis, emphasizing the human aspects behind extraordinary actions rather than idealized depictions.
Challenges and Insights from Bringing Huey Newton's Story to Screen
Despite the 25-year journey to bring the story of Huey Newton to life, challenges persisted in the representation of reality while staying authentic to the narrative. The casting of Andre Holland as Huey Newton brought a profound portrayal enriched by Holland's dedication to maintaining the authenticity and perspective of the character. The creative process involved meticulous attention to detail to ensure the story's adherence to the capital 'T' truth of the events, balancing cinematic storytelling with the historical accuracy of the Panthers' challenging era.
Watch Carol and Tim LIVE every day on YouTube: http://bit.ly/3vTiACF. Jim Hecht, Television Creator and Writer, discusses his new drama for Apple TV+ The Big Cigar. Hosts: Carol Massar and Bailey Lipschultz. Producer: Paul Brennan.