See Channing Tatum in 'Magic Mike XXL' First Look (MORE Photos Added!)

"I don't think anyone's going to be disappointed," says director Gregory Jacobs

Photo: Claudette Barius

Brace yourselves, ladies (and gents!) – PEOPLE’s got an exclusive first look at Channing Tatum in Magic Mike XXL!

The follow-up to Tatum’s male strip club drama, which lap-danced its way into pop culture history nearly three years ago, is due out July 1.

Those connected to the project have remained relatively mum up to this point, and director-producer Gregory Jacobs is still hesitant to spill too much of the plot. But he does let a few things slip out (ahem).

“It’s a road-trip picture. Mike and the guys get back together, and adventure ensues,” Jacobs tells PEOPLE, adding with a laugh: “They look incredible Their shirts are off an appropriate amount, let’s put it that way! I don’t think anyone’s going to be disappointed.”

Matthew McConaughey is out this time around, but that’s all right (all right, all right) because PEOPLE’s reigning Hottest Bachelor Joe Manganiello, Matt Bomer, Tatum (obviously) and other fan favorites return for the reboot.

Joining the original cast members is a slew of new blood – including Jada Pinkett Smith, Amber Heard, Michael Strahan and Elizabeth Banks – but Jacobs says fans will have to wait to see the film to find out what roles they play.

“They’re part of who these guys meet along the way, and the reveal of that is really fun,” he says.

So what can moviegoers expect come July 4th weekend – aside from slicked up, synchronized half-naked man-dancing, that is?

“It’s dramatic and emotional but not as dark [as the first film],” Jacobs says. “It’s such a great group of people. We had a blast making it. I hope that comes across on screen.”

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Magic Mike XXL, pick up the new issue of PEOPLE, on newsstands Friday