Apple TV+ ‘The Big Cigar’ Episode 6 Review - Newton’s Journey Reaches a Climax

Episode 6 of "The Big Cigar," titled "The Pirate," brings the series to a dramatic and satisfying conclusion. The journey of Huey P. Newton, portrayed with raw intensity by André Holland, reaches its climax as he and his steadfast ally, Stephen Blauner (PJ Byrne), inch closer to their goal of reaching Cuba. This final chapter encapsulates the strengths and weaknesses of the series, making for an engaging, if occasionally frustrating, watch.

The episode dives right into the tension that has been building up, with Huey and Stephen navigating the perilous waters of FBI surveillance and political intrigue. The suspense is palpable as they face the final hurdles in their escape plan. The psychological toll of being a fugitive is laid bare, and Holland’s portrayal of Newton's descent into paranoia and fear is both compelling and heart-wrenching.

What stands out in "The Pirate" is the strong performances. Holland continues to anchor the series with his intense depiction of Newton. His ability to convey the character’s inner turmoil is nothing short of remarkable. Byrne’s Blauner, on the other hand, provides a balanced counterpoint, his loyalty and determination shining through even in the direst circumstances. Their dynamic is a testament to the series' strength in character development.

The narrative maintains a high level of suspense, particularly as Newton and Blauner face their final hurdles. The script does a commendable job of keeping viewers on edge, wondering if Newton will manage to escape to Cuba or fall into the FBI’s hands. This tension is complemented by the effective use of historical context, situating the viewer in the politically charged environment of the 1970s. The inclusion of real historical elements, such as the FBI’s COINTELPRO operations, adds depth to the narrative, making it not just a thriller but a poignant historical drama.

However, the episode is not without its flaws. The pacing, for one, occasionally falters. Certain scenes drag on longer than necessary, diluting the overall tension. This uneven pacing can disrupt the immersive experience the series aims to create. Additionally, some subplots feel undercooked, particularly those involving secondary characters. The potential complexities of FBI agent Sydney Clark’s perspective, for instance, are hinted at but not fully explored, leaving a gap in the narrative’s richness.

"The Pirate" also highlights some missed opportunities in the series. While the show does well to humanize Newton, it sometimes shies away from the more radical elements of his political stance. A deeper exploration of his ideologies and the Black Panther movement’s impact could have added layers to his character and the story overall. Furthermore, certain plot developments feel predictable, which slightly undermines the suspense. The resolution of key conflicts often follows expected paths, reducing the element of surprise that is crucial for a thriller.

As a finale, "The Pirate" effectively wraps up Newton’s story but leaves some threads hanging. The tension and suspense that have been built throughout the series come to a head, but the resolution feels somewhat rushed. Key character arcs are resolved, yet some feel like they could have been given more depth and screen time. The finale succeeds in bringing closure to Newton’s immediate plight but misses the opportunity to delve deeper into the broader implications of his struggle and the lasting impact of his actions.

Despite these shortcomings, the episode delves deeper into the relationships and motivations of the characters. Blauner’s unwavering support for Newton and the camaraderie they share add emotional weight to the storyline, making the stakes feel all the more personal and urgent.

In conclusion, "The Pirate" is a fitting end to a series that has managed to captivate and educate its audience, even if it sometimes stumbles in its execution. The performances, particularly by Holland and Byrne, are worth watching, and the historical context provides a rich backdrop that elevates the series above a standard thriller. For those interested in a blend of history and drama, "The Big Cigar" offers a compelling ride, albeit with some bumps along the way. The finale encapsulates the series' core themes of loyalty, struggle, and the fight against systemic oppression, ending on a note that is both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant.

Final Score- [6/10]