The term "theatrical release" refers to the initial distribution and exhibition of a film in movie theaters. It is the first way that a film is made available to the public, usually through a large number of screens across various countries or regions. The goal of a theatrical release is to attract as many viewers as possible by creating buzz around the film through marketing and advertising campaigns, special events, and advanced screenings. A successful theatrical run can help generate word-of-mouth publicity, critical acclaim, and awards consideration for a movie, which in turn can lead to increased revenue from home video releases, streaming services, and other ancillary markets.