The much-awaited teaser for Dawn of the Planet of the Apes debuted on Dec. 18. 

Viewers get the first look at the rather scary and menacing Caesar (Andy Serkis), the leader of the genetically evolved apes who dominate earth. The minority is formed by the few humans who survived the ravaging virus that claimed most of the species. The sequel film, which has been directed by Matt Reeves, is set a decade after Rise of the Planet of the Apes.

The teaser reveals that Gary Oldman will be leading the human race to stand up to Caesar. The clip captures damaged and scant remnants of human civilization in the forests. There are hoards of people packed into one such, almost obliterated structure, listening to Dreyfus (Oldman) as he inspires them to wage war against the apes. 

"We've been through hell together, we spent four years fighting that virus and then another four years fighting each other it was chaos but you all know what we are up against," he says. "And I want you to know, it's not just about power it's about giving us the hope to rebuild and reclaim the war that we lost."

Viewers also see Jason Clarke, who plays Malcolm, and Keri Russell as his partner hiding out in bleak confines. Some humans, including Dreyfus, are seen wielding machine guns and engaging in combat.

The video builds up to revealing Caesar. A man is seen facing a barricade, though viewers can only see his back. He seems to be looking at the other side, where the antagonistic regime of apes lives.

"I need to speak to Caesar," a distressed voice is heard screaming out into the forest.

At this point, a close shot reveals the demonic face of Caesar and slowly pans out to reveal an army of apes behind him, just waiting for him to signal them to attack.

Dawn of the Planet of the Apes will release in July 18 2014.

Watch the teaser here:

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