Magnolia Pictures has released the first trailer for the new sci-fi film Europa Report. Directed by Sebastian Cordero, the film follows a contemporary mission to Jupiter’s moon Europa to investigate the possible existence of alien life. Naturally, when the crew lands on the surface and starts digging below the ice, they find themselves in dire circumstances. The film isn’t exactly found footage, but most of the pic is framed using cameras inside the spacecraft, on the external vehicles, and in documentary-style interviews with the crew members. The practical effects approach is definitely impressive, and there’s a strong horror undercurrent that looks to be quite effective.

Hit the jump to watch the trailer. The film stars Sharlto Copley, Michael Nyqvist, Christian Camargo, Embeth Davidtz, Dan Fogler, Anamaria Marinca, Isiah Whitlock Jr., Karolina Wydra, and Daniel Wu. Europa Report will be available on iTunes on June 27th and hits theaters on August 2nd.

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Here’s the official synopsis for Europa Report: