Peter Jackson's New Film Mortal Engines Gets Striking New Trailer

Universal Pictures has released a trailer for their upcoming sci-fi film based on the popular fantasy book series Mortal Engines by Philip Reeve. The film bears the same name as the book series and has been in the works for several years. The same writing team that brought us Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit headed up by Peter Jackson has partnered with director Christian Rivers to deliver what looks to be an action-packed, visually striking movie.

Set in post-apocalyptic London, the film focuses on the story of two young crusaders fighting for a better future in a world ravaged by war. Cities consist of mechanical settlements on giant mobile wheels whose aim is to simply consume the resources of smaller settlements. Adventuring ensues when the female lead played by Hera Miller finds out that her mother uncovered a mysterious secret just before being murdered by Thaddeus Valentine, a powerful figure played by Hugo Weaving. Fans of the British sci-fi series Misfits will be excited to see Robert Sheehan as the male lead, Tom Natsworthy.

The trailer gives you a pretty clear picture of what the movie will be about and what it will look like. You can see why it has taken several years to complete, as the setting almost entirely consists of digital visual effects. The film looks like it's going to be fast-paced, action-heavy and really fun to look at. From the grimy inner workings of a mechanical city to the vast landscapes and giant airships, the trailer draws you in with stark and complex visuals.

Mortal Engines is set to be released December 14th.