The feature film Roofman from writer- director Derek Cianfrance, cowritten with Kirt Gunn, is based on true events, however outlandish a few scenes may appear to audience members. It has an amazing cast in both the leading and supporting roles that makes this film one that is so much more than it seems on the surface. While it is based on a real-life person and the choices he made in life, I do not know how many of his actions shown in the film are real or dramatized. Who knows for sure how much of what he did in real life does not make the cut in the film or perhaps was toned down in the editing room. I can honestly say that I am much more pleasantly surprised after viewing the film than what I had anticipated. It is one that I do hope audiences will go see in the theater and enjoy too.
While the film is based on a man who did commit robberies, this film is a very good blend of a drama, comedy, romance, and so much more that happens in real life and can be identified by the viewer. I know I felt so much emotion when it comes to any scenes with the smaller children/minors, when there was a moving scene.
Jeffrey Manchester (Channing Tatum’s character) married Talena (Melonie Diaz, “Charmed” TV series, Lords of Dogtown, Raising Victor Vargas) and has three children with her. He loves his 6-year-old daughter and twin baby boys, but the marriage appears on the rocks from the start of the film. Manchester may not have appeared to be the brightest person, but he did serve in the military and learned great skills. One thing he already has and served him well is his keen sense of observation. This is noted by his friend and fellow serviceman, Steve (LaKeith Stanfield, “Atlanta” TV series, Knives Out, Uncut Gems, Get Out). Steve does his best to help Jeffrey, but at a price. Jeffrey does not follow advice well.
Channing Tatum is excellent for this role, as he is charming, likeable, fun, and certainly is a great leading man with a comedic side that shows us so many sides to this character’s personality. He not only knows how to turn on the charm, but he can also switch into the bad guy mode quite swiftly to achieve the goal he has in mind in that moment.
Kirsten Dunst (Civil War, The Power of the Dog, Spider – Man) is excellent in this role as Manchester’s love interest while he is supposed to be hiding out. Without spoiling any scenes, she is perfect as a single mama with two daughters who is drawn to his charm a little skeptical while feeling ok since meeting at church. She does lead a toy drive and Manchester generously donates to the church. They have great scenes together.
I can’t omit one of my favorite actors, Peter Dinklage who portrays Mitch, the manager of the store where Manchester is hiding out. There are so many excellent scenes of Mitch being the lousiest boss ever with the employees of a retail store. Don’t miss this!
In case someone may not recognize the director’s name, perhaps the mention of some of these notable films will serve as a good reference. Among Cianfrance’s films are Blue Valentine, The Place Beyond the Pines and Sound of Metal, a 2021 Oscar winner in two categories and several nominations. He has the talent to make Roofman so appealing to an audience on various levels.
Source: Paramount Pictures
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