Regal Cinemas has reopened some of its theaters following a COVID-19 shutdown.

Kevin Braconi went to see a movie for the first time since the pandemic.

“Today is actually my birthday. I go to the movies every year on my birthday, so it’s perfect,” he says.

Braconi was one of several people to see a movie at the North Brunswick location as Regal Cinemas reopened its doors Friday afternoon.

Regal is the second-largest movie theater chain in the United States. It has more than 500 locations. The theaters were shut down in October because there were too few new movies being released.

Regal pegged its reopening to coincide with the theatrical release of "Godzilla vs. Kong" earlier this month. The chain has gradually opened theaters since.

The theater chain is far from alone in having to struggle to fill its seats. Many independent theaters in New Jersey remain closed. Auditorium capacity limits stand at 35% and movie studios are still holding back releases until more ticket buyers are allowed in.

Regal will continue to reopen New Jersey locations through May 21. The locations in Sewell and Moorestown are also now open.