'Life of Pi's' First Trailer Is Visually Stunning

Life of Pi, otherwise known as the novel with the tiger on the cover that half the high schoolers in America have had on their summer reading list since it was published in 2001, is coming to theaters on Nov. 21. The film, based on the book by Yann Martel and directed by Ang Lee, whose past projects include Brokeback Mountain and Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, released it's first full trailer Wednesday. While the just over two minutes of footage doesn't reveal much more about the story arc than the cover depicting a young boy, (Pi), hanging out on a boat with a massive jungle cat -- the gorgeous imagery is more than enough to suck you in.

The shots of the orange-morning sky reflecting off the water are so arresting that when they're interrupted by a gigantic snarling tiger it seems a shame to take time away from the sunrise visuals. The shot that will have everyone talking, however, is what appears to be (but most likely isn't) a radio active whale shimmering with florescent green edges erupting from the water just feet from the life boat where Pi and his tiger sit. In case you're not sold on the cinematography alone, vague but impressive themes are declared between shots assuring viewers this film will feature loss, courage, friendship, hope, and anything else you expect from a film released during the holiday season.