Cinescape's Take

And here's the same thing, from Cinescape...

'Wing' Release Details
20th Century Fox is so pleased with a recent screening of Wing Commander's final print, that they intend to push the film in a big way. Obviously, early word of the long Star Wars: Episode One – The Phantom Menace trailer being attached to the film's prints won't hurt too much when it hits screens on March 12. According to Variety, Fox also intends to get the film placed on as many as 1500 screens. The trade also reports that besides the good screening buzz, a rival distributor was at one time interested in giving the film full theatrical release. Sensing they may have another franchise on their hands, Fox has decided to take additional risk with Wing Commander. Fox originally intended to give the film a limited theatrical release, and then larger exposure through home video distribution.