Move over, Quentin Tarantino. 'Django Unchained' was great and all, but Steve McQueen is taking a darker, more serious look at the slavery era in his upcoming film '12 Years a Slave.' The first official trailer for the film has been released, and it's got Oscar nominations written all over it.

'12 Years a Slave' is based on the true story of Solomon Northrup, a free black man who is kidnapped and sold into slavery. Judging by this first trailer, we're looking at a serious awards season contender, packed with an all-star cast.

The official synopsis:

12 YEARS A SLAVE is based on an incredible true story of one man’s fight for survival and freedom. In the pre-Civil War United States, Solomon Northup (Chiwetel Ejiofor), a free black man from upstate New York, is abducted and sold into slavery. Facing cruelty (personified by a malevolent slave owner, portrayed by Michael Fassbender) as well as unexpected kindnesses, Solomon struggles not only to stay alive, but to retain his dignity. In the twelfth year of his unforgettable odyssey, Solomon’s chance meeting with a Canadian abolitionist (Brad Pitt) forever alters his life.

'12 Years a Slave' hits theaters on Oct. 18, and stars Chiwetel Ejiofor, Brad Pitt, Michael Fassbender, Alfre Woodard, Benedict Cumberbatch, Paul Giamatti, Paul Dano, Michael K. Williams, Quvenzhane Wallis, Sarah Paulson, and Scoot McNairy.

More From KZCD-FM