The first trailer for Peter Jackson’s The Lovely Bones has been released.

The Lovely Bones follows a murdered young girl named Susie Salmon (Saoirse Ronan) as she watches over her family – and her killer – from heaven.

Based on the novel by Alice Sebold, the story is an emotional journey in which Susie must weigh her desire for vengeance against her desire for her family to heal. This is a ‘must watch’ fantasy movie.

Watch the trailer after the jump:

The Lovely Bones stars Mark Wahlberg, Rachel Weisz, Susan Sarandon, Stanley Tucci, Jake Abel, Charlie Saxton, Michael Imperioli, Amanda Michalka and Saoirse Ronan as Susie Salmon. Interestingly, Ronan was chosen for the role after author Alice Sebold wanted an unknown actress for the role.  In an odd twist of fate, Ronan was then nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Atonement.

Prolific music composer Brian Eno is in charge of the soundtrack. Eno’s scoring credits include The Jacket and Fear X.  Eno also composed the Prophecy Theme in 1984’s Dune.

Watch the following featurette which goes behind-the-scenes, shows footage from the film, and includes commentary from cast and crew.

The Lovely Bones will be released:
USA – December 11, 2009
Australia – December 26, 2009
UK – January 29, 2010

Related posts:

• ‘The Lovely Bones’ Poster Released
• Six New Images From ‘The Lovely Bones’