With a massively talented cast that includes Chiwetel Ejiofor, Brad Pitt, Benedict Cumberbatch, Paul Giamatti, Quvenzhane Wallis, Sarah Paulson and Paul Dano, director Steve McQueen‘s 12 Years a Slave tells the true story of Solomon Northup. Born a free man, Northup was captured, drugged and then enslaved for 12 years.

McQueen’s two prior films, Hunger and Shame, have been slow moving character studies that don’t quite pedal to the mainstream 12 Years a Slave promises to. With an October 18th release date, it’s lined up to be a major Oscar contender that may just lead to multiple nominations. Considering that this year is particularly loaded in terms of talent, it may end up skating on the outskirts rather than breaking into the inner circle.

Take a look here and see if you think this will get any serious Oscar play.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5EYbEuq-_bk

 12 Years a Slave is directed by Steve McQueen and stars Chiwetel Ejiofor, Brad Pitt, Benedict Cumberbatch, Paul Giamatti, Quvenzhane Wallis, Sarah Paulson, Paul Dano, Scoot McNairy, Garrett Dillahunt, Alfre Woodard, Dwight Henry, and Michael K. Williams. It hits theaters on October 18.