The first trailer for 'The Campaign' starring Will Ferrell was released online this weekend as the teaser trailer for the recently announced sequel to 2004's 'Anchorman 2', also starring Ferrell, hit screenings of Sacha Baron Cohen's comedy 'The Dictator in cinemas.

The Campaign, which costars Zach Galifianakis ( The Hangover) and is directed by Jay Roach ( Meet the Fockers,  Austin Powers), follows a pair of political candidates, a slick incumbent with an unexpected and unlikely opponent, a naïve rival with big money backers.

The footage shows how a civil campaign turns into a nasty battle with cutthroat tactics as each candidate strives to win votes - and laughs for moviegoers.

A timely release in the US with the presidential election cycle in full swing this summer, the film also stars Jason Sudeikis, Dylan McDermott, Brian Cox, John Lithgow and Dan Aykroyd.

The Campaign releases August 9-10 in Australia, Singapore, Brazil and North America, followed by the UK in September and rolling out in Europe and other markets.

The Anchorman 2 teaser features the television news team, including Paul Rudd ( Dinner for Schmucks) and Steve Carell ( Crazy Stupid Love), announcing their return in 2013.

With a special international introduction by Ferrell and Galifianakis, here is the trailer: