Key Highlights
- Roofman, starring Channing Tatum, is now streaming on Paramount+.
- The film is a BOATS (Based On A True Story) movie about a criminal who robs places by cutting through their roofs.
- Director Derek Cianfrance returns with this comedy that has dark undertones, marking his first directorial effort since 2016’s The Light Between Oceans.
- The film explores the life of Jeffrey Manchester (Tatum), a man who turns to crime out of desperation and eventually ends up in prison for 45 years.
Roofman: A True Story of Crime, Desperation, and Redemption
The streaming service Paramount+ now hosts Roofman, a unique true crime story that blends elements of comedy with dark undertones. This film is the latest project from director Derek Cianfrance, best known for his previous works like Blue Valentine and The Place Beyond the Pines. The movie centers around Jeffrey Manchester (Channing Tatum), a man driven to commit crimes out of desperation but who ultimately finds himself incarcerated for an astonishing 45 years.
In the film, Jeffrey is depicted as a charismatic figure who meticulously plans his heists.
He robs McDonald’s restaurants by cutting holes in their roofs and then kindly ushering the employees into the freezer to keep them warm. His actions are driven by a desire to provide for his family, but his methods and eventual capture make for a compelling narrative.
Channing Tatum’s Performance
The movie features Channing Tatum in one of his most emotionally complex roles. He brings depth and nuance to the character of Jeffrey Manchester, portraying both his good intentions and his criminal tendencies. Tatum’s performance is a highlight of the film, as he convincingly captures the duality of Jeffrey’s character.
“You got the calculation down, but you’re just… goofy,” says LaKeith Stanfield’s Steve to Channing Tatum in one of the film’s memorable exchanges. This line encapsulates the essence of Jeffrey’s character—smart yet somewhat silly, a man who finds himself in deeply problematic situations due to his circumstances.
The Supporting Cast and Direction
Supporting actors like Peter Dinklage as Mitch (the McDonald’s manager) and Kirsten Dunst as Leigh (Jeffrey’s love interest) bring their own depth to the story. Dunst, in particular, delivers a standout performance that anchors the film with her portrayal of a relatable yet complex character.
The direction by Derek Cianfrance is visually stunning, employing handheld cameras and gritty suburban settings to create an authentic atmosphere. The screenplay, written by Kirt Gunn, manages to strike a balance between comedy and drama, though some critics found it could have been more nuanced.
Our Take: A Mixed Bag of Emotions
Roofman is ultimately a character-driven film that explores themes of desperation and consumerism. While the story may feel somewhat conventional in its execution, Tatum and Dunst’s performances elevate the material significantly. Their chemistry and emotional depth bring humanity to Jeffrey’s journey.
Despite some shortcomings in the writing, the film benefits from the strong performances and Cianfrance’s directorial approach.
It serves as a reminder of how personal choices can have far-reaching consequences, even when driven by good intentions.
STREAM IT. Roofman on Paramount+: Watch Now
What do you think? Would you give this film a chance or skip it altogether?
