Roofman (2025) - A Movie Review

How can anybody live in a store?

"Roofman" is a 2025 film based on true events about how convicted criminal Jeffrey Manchester escaped prison and hid out in a Toys R’ Us for six months. A romance stirs between Jeffrey and an employee, Leigh, but he has to keep a low profile. 

You never know what underground stories there are in the world. "Roofman" is a funny movie. This film has become one of my new favorite comedies. After watching, it makes you think of what other stories aren’t so hidden. It’s a comical and fascinating story about hiding from the law.

Channing Tatum has become popular and has branched out in his roles. He plays Jeffrey Manchester, a lovable goofball who is also a criminal. This was an interesting role to play. Tatum is so sincere in all of his deliveries. He does a great job configuring his character’s conscience between right and wrong. 

The real Jeffrey Manchester was heavily involved with the film and gave Tatum some pointers. They talked to each other over the phone for two months. Originally, Tatum had set questions all about Manchester’s escape methods, until they ended up in conversations about their personal lives. According to sources, Manchester is satisfied with the film.

 Tatum and Kirsten Dunst (Leigh) have excellent chemistry. Their relationship is important to the story. Jeffrey also helps Leigh’s daughters, Lindsay (Lily Collias) and Dee (Kennedy Moyer), with their issues.

"Roofman" stars several familiar faces, including LaKeith Stanfield, Peter Dinklage, Juno Temple, Tony Revolori, and plenty of ensemble roles. Some who were involved in Manchester’s case play themselves. No small role ever goes unnoticed. 

Director Derek Cianfrance wanted to challenge himself with a comedy after his last film, "Blue Valentine" (2010). He had fun directing this film, and he ensured that the film was accurate. His editing was also skillful, reflecting Manchester’s scheming behavior.

The story the film is based on is interesting to read about. I immediately went and looked it up once the film ended. For research, Cianfrance met with Manchester four times a week in the prison to ensure accuracy. I like how Cianfrance didn’t fabricate details and turn Manchester’s story into a mean-spirited work.

He asked everyone involved their side of the events, even casting the actual truck driver who inadvertently helped Manchester escape. Most of the law officers were part of Manchester’s case. 

Recently, I watched this film again with my friend, and just like the first time, I was laughing and laughing. The film has so many funny moments. The hardest we laughed was when Dinklage finds a nude Manchester, who takes off and disappears as he calls the police. 

The majority of "Roofman" was filmed in North Carolina, where the actual events took place. Since most Toys R’ Us stores have gone out of business since the film’s early 2000s period, filmmakers built a 23,000-square-foot Toys R’ Us in an abandoned building. 

What is it like to live in a store where you can’t leave any evidence behind? Well, it has its perks. Manchester makes use of what he has, stealing clothes, a mattress, and creating his own security system.

Manchester said, “If you lock yourself in a toy store for six months, it has a way of bringing out your inner child.”

Bizarre stories exist. "Roofman" had an excellent writer’s team, keeping the movie going, both with comedy and drama. You’re free to be who you are, but watch what you do.

"Roofman" is a much-needed comedy. I wish I saw it in theaters! Watch it for laughs on your next movie night with friends. It’s streaming on Prime.