The first images to Steve McQueen's "Twelve Years a Slave" have surfaced on the internet.

The new film tells the story Northrup (Chiwetel Ejiofor), a free African-American kidnapped while he is living in New York and sold into slavery. A Baptist preacher William Ford (Benedict Cumberbatch) becomes his first owner with whom he shares an "extraordinary friendship" before he becomes the property of evil plantation owner Edwin Epps (Michael Fassbender), and his wife Mistress Epps (Sarah Paulson).

The film has garnered buzz ever since Fox Searchlight bought it for distribution. The movie continued building momentum when it received an R-rating from the MPAA. With the six stills released by Fox, pundits have already started to speculate that the trailer will premiere in front of "The Way Way Back," Searchlight's next release.

McQueen recently told the press that Brad Pitt, who also stars in the film, was the reason for the film being made. He said "Without Brad, this film wouldn't have been made. Fact. Just his presence sometimes could lift everyone's mood. It's like having a great on a team. He doesn't have to play a big role, but his presence can lift everyone's game."

The director also called Fassbender's performance fierce and stated, "[It's one] that no one's ever seen before, and that's saying something."

"Twelve Years a Slave" marks McQueen third film. He previously helmed the critically acclaimed "Hunger" and "Shame."

Ejiofor is best known for his work on "Children of Men," "American Gangster," and "Salt." He has been nominated for three Golden Globes for his performances in "Kinky Boots," "Tsunami: The Aftermath," and "Endgame."

Fassbender last appeared in "Prometheus." His breakout came in 2008 for his performance in "Hunger." In 2010 he was nominated for a Golden Globe and BAFTA award for his performance in "Shame." He also received praise for his work on "A Dangerous Method," and "Jane Eyre." He will next be seen in "Frank" and "The Counselor."

"Twelve Years a Slave" also stars Paul Giamatti, Paul Dano, Alfre Woodard, Dwight Henry, and Quvenzhane Wallis. The movie opens on December 27, 2013.