"Roofman," starring Channing Tatum and Kirsten Dunst, brings to life the unbelievable true story of Jeffrey Manchester with a blend of rigorous accuracy and imaginative playfulness. Directed by Derek Cianfrance, the film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 6, 2025, and is slated for release in the United States on October 10, 2025.
The film chronicles the life of Jeffrey Manchester, a former Army Reserve non-commissioned officer who earned the moniker "Roofman" for his daring heists, which involved breaking into McDonald's restaurants through their roofs. After escaping from prison, Manchester hides inside a Toys "R" Us for six months. While living undetected, he falls for Leigh Wainscott, a divorced mother and employee at the store. This connection leads to a risky double life that threatens to unravel his carefully constructed world.
Tatum embodies Manchester, capturing the character's charm and complexity. Dunst plays Leigh Wainscott, a single mother who finds herself drawn to Manchester's undeniable appeal. Ben Mendelsohn, LaKeith Stanfield, Juno Temple, Melonie Diaz, Uzo Aduba, Lily Collias, Jimmy O. Yang, and Peter Dinklage round out the cast, each adding depth to the narrative.
According to Dean Richards' interview with Channing Tatum and Kirsten Dunst, playing real-life characters presented unique challenges and opportunities. Dunst stated that she didn't feel the pressure of mimicking someone widely known, which allowed her to focus on the grace Leigh had towards Jeff and the genuine love they shared. Tatum communicated with the real Jeff almost every day for a couple of months, gaining insight into his optimistic and charismatic personality.
"Roofman" balances suspense, heart, and entertainment. While some critics find the film to be a flawed curiosity, others praise the chemistry between Tatum and Dunst, noting their rare on-screen pairing as single parents navigating stressful situations. The film has been described as sentimental but sincere, with a tonal juggling act that gives it life. However, some reviews suggest that the film capitulates to feel-good demands, leaving some of the pricklier aspects of Manchester's story unexplored.
"Roofman" promises to be a compelling and suspenseful game of cat and mouse as Manchester's past closes in. The film is scheduled to be released in the United States on October 10, 2025.
