‘首映’ literally means ‘first screening’ — ‘首’ (shǒu) means ‘first’ or ‘initial’, and ‘映’ (yìng) is short for ‘放映’ (fàngyìng), meaning ‘to screen’ or ‘to project’. Together, they form a compound noun referring specifically to the first public showing of a film, often accompanied by special events, celebrity appearances, and media coverage. It’s commonly used in entertainment news, movie posters, and promotional materials.

This term is formal and media-oriented; it’s not used for casual showings among friends or private viewings. While ‘首映’ emphasizes the official, public debut, it does not imply commercial release date — a film may have its premiere in one city weeks before nationwide distribution. It can also be used metaphorically for the first public presentation of other creative works, like documentaries or animated series, though its core association remains with cinema.