Highly Anticipated 12 YEARS A SLAVE First Trailer Released From FOX SEARCHLIGHT PICTURES

Acclaimed Director Steve McQueen brings one of this fall's most exciting acting ensembles together in “12 YEARS A SLAVE”, the incredible true story of Solomon Northup, based on his own memoirs.

This is the first look at footage from the anticipated film, which celebrates Northup's remarkable journey from free man to slave, and back to freedom.  SOLOMON NORTHUP DAY was established in 1999 to keep Solomon's story and legacy alive as a historical and educational event honoring Solomon, his ancestors, and his descendants.  This year his descendants will present new historic information and his great-great-great grand-daughter will perform a violin selection in his honor.

In addition, a special sneak preview of scenes from the upcoming film, as well as the trailer, will be screened for Northup's descendants and guests of the celebration.

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) will forever alter his life.

12 YEARS A SLAVE” stars Chiwetel Ejiofor as Solomon Northup, a free man who was kidnapped in 1841 and forced into slavery at a Louisiana cotton plantation.  Ejiofor is joined by Michael Fassbender, Benedict Cumberbatch, Paul Dano, Garret Dillahunt, Paul Giamatti, Scoot McNairy, Lupita Nyong'o, Adepero Oduye, Sarah Paulson, Brad Pitt, Michael Kenneth Williams, Alfre Woodard, Chris Chalk, Taran Killam and Bill Camp in the film, which will be released by Regency Enterprises’ and River Road Entertainment.

SOLOMON NORTHUP DAY will be held on July 20, 2013 at Skidmore College in Filene Hall in Saratoga Springs, NY from 12pm until 4pm. The event is open to the public.

"12 YEARS A SLAVE" is produced by Brad Pitt, Dede Gardner, Jeremy Kleiner,Bill Pohlad, Arnon Milchan, Steve McQueen, Anthony Katagas based on the screenplay by John Ridley from the book by Solomon Northrup.

For more information please visit: http://www.skidmore.edu/

 

WATCH THE TRAILER 

http://trailers.apple.com/trailers/fox_searchlight/12yearsaslave/

 

Fox Searchlight Pictures on October 18, 2013 in select theaters.

 

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