There's a dangerous band of misfits running around the universe, and Marvel fans can finally get a glimpse of the unlikely heroes in the first Guardians of the Galaxy trailer.

James Gunn Claims 'Guardians' Characters Are The 'Rolling Stones' In Marvel's 'Biggest' Film Yet

If you've never heard of the Guardians, don't panic; neither have the prison guards suddenly responsible for detaining them.

Introduced by their rap sheets, the Guardians consist of Gamora (Zoe Saldana), a solider/assassin formally aligned with Thanos; Drax the Destroyer (Dave Bautista), a extremely muscular being on a quest to avenge his family's death; Rocket Raccoon (voice of Bradley Cooper), a diminutive creature with a penchant for powerful weapons and explosives; Groot (voice of Vin Diesel) , a sentient tree described as Rocket's muscle/house plant; and Star-Lord/Peter Quill (Chris Pratt), a former resident of Earth and a legendary outlaw (in his own mind).

Kevin Feige Teases Thanos And Surprise Appearance For 'Guardians Of The Galaxy'

As disparate as these characters may seem, the quintet will quickly make a name for themselves as they form an allegiance, break out of prison, and attempt to keep Star-Lord's orb out of Ronan's (Lee Pace) grasp.

The first non-Avenger related film to grace the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Guardians will still bear all the hallmarks of the comic-book studio - action, explosions, heroics, an incredibly evil villain, endless wit, and a tie to Thanos.

Plus there's the added bonus of '80s references, souped-up spaceships, and an entirely new universe for fans to explore.

Directed by James Gunn, Guardians of the Galaxy will hit theaters on Aug. 1.

Tags: Guardians Of The Galaxy Marvel Movies