Polish movie "Vinci" will start its screening in cinemas on the Chinese mainland on Thursday, making it the first imported movie of 2008, according to an official with the Shanghai United Circuit.

The light-hearted movie, directed by Polish director Juliusz Machulski, revolves around stealing "Lady with an Ermine," a famous painting by Da Vinci.

It has secured the No.1 spot at Poland's box-office for two weeks and made strong box-office performance in other European countries.

The official believed "Vinci" will be the first major money-making film on China's movie market in 2008, adding that the light comedy is suitable for the lucrative holiday movie season in January.

The China Film Group Corporation said it plans to import 20 foreign movies this year, according to earlier reports.

(Xinhua News Agency January 9, 2008)