![Watch the Trailer for '12 Years a Slave'](https://www.essence.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/images/2013/07/16/12-years-a-slave.jpg)
The first trailer for Steve McQueens 12 Years a Slave has been released and it’s offering a piece of what to expect from the upcoming historical drama.
The film tells the true story of Solomon Northup, a free Black man captured during the 1840s and forced into slavery.
Kinky Boots star Chiwetel Ejiofor plays Northup in the movie and is joined by co-stars Alfre Woodard and Quvanzhane Wallis.
Twelve Years a Slave is scheduled to hit theaters October 8 and is already in the race for a possible Oscar.
Check out the trailer below and tell us what you think.