After months of waiting and rare glimpses, fans of Stephen King’s The Dark Tower book series were finally gifted with a trailer release for the upcoming film adaptation. Just a few days ago, movie executives revealed that the highly anticipated trailer would be releasing sometime this week, and it looks like they have kept good on their word. The trailer launched early this morning, and the video released is nothing short of epic. Check out the trailer below to see the grizzled Gunslinger, Roland Deschain and the young Jake Chambers encounter The Man in Black as he endeavors to destroy the Dark Tower and, consequently, the lives of everyone on Earth:

The trailer, which was released on Sony Entertainment’s YouTube account, paints vivid imagery of the thrilling tale ahead for viewers. Idris Elba’s Roland is as weathered and experienced as the novels’ last Gunslinger of Mid-world, while bringing a sort of charm and grit to the character that only Elba can provide. On the other hand, Matthew McConaughey’s Walter Padick cuts a chilling figure in this story. McConaughey’s portrayal of the Man in Black casts a sense of true evil over the character as this immortal sorcerer aims to destroy the Dark Tower that could bring an end to humanity.

While this trailer is certainly a treat for those who’ve been waiting for its release, it is important to remember that the film certainly doesn’t follow the novel series directly. As revealed in the trailer, the movie looks like it will be more of a singular adaptation, taking inspiration and scenes from the eight novels to form a concrete sequel/remake to them. Even still, it looks like film writers made sure to include Roland’s iconic line “I kill with my heart” into the plot, paired with a heart-pounding scene where the Gunslinger manages a near-impossible shot to save the young Jake Chambers from certain death.

The Dark Tower officially releases in theaters August 4th and stars Idris Elba as Roland Deschain, Matthew McConaughey as The Man in Black, and Tom Taylor as Jake Chambers.

Thoughts on the trailer reveal from Sony Entertainment? Does this film adaptation of the movie live up to expectations? Should film makers have kept the movie closer to the source material? Make sure to join in on the discussion in the comments below, and don’t forget to follow DFTG on Twitter for live gaming and entertainment updates 24/7. As always … game on, friends!