A trailer has been unveiled for the highly anticipated film “Roofman,” marking the return of acclaimed director Derek Cianfrance. After nearly a decade since his last feature film, “The Light Between Oceans” in 2016, Cianfrance is set to make his comeback with “Roofman,” which is slated for release on October 3, 2025, just in time for awards season. Miramax is positioning the film for a significant festival run in the fall of 2025.
The first look images shared by Entertainment Weekly give audiences an early glimpse into the film, which stars Channing Tatum, Kirsten Dunst, and Peter Dinklage. “Roofman” tells the extraordinary true story of Jeffrey Manchester, portrayed by Tatum. Manchester, a former military man, embarked on a series of audacious robberies at McDonald’s locations across the U.S. during the late ’90s, reportedly committing between 40 and 60 heists. The plot takes a bizarre twist when he takes up residence in a Toys “R” Us store in Charlotte, NC, evading detection for months while subsisting on baby food and snacks for children.
While this narrative may seem unconventional for Cianfrance, known for his emotionally charged storytelling in films like “Blue Valentine” and “The Place Beyond the Pines,” it offers a unique opportunity to explore the depths of humanity amidst chaos. Interestingly, Cianfrance previously ruled out directing “Wolfman” in favor of this project, indicating his enthusiasm for “Roofman” as his first film in over eight years.
As for its festival prospects, “Roofman” is a contender for events like the Telluride Film Festival and the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). Although it’s a long shot for the Venice Film Festival, Cianfrance’s history with the festival could work in his favor, pending the film’s quality.
This return to filmmaking offers a sense of hope for both Cianfrance’s dedicated fans and cinema lovers looking forward to fresh storytelling. The intriguing premise of “Roofman” suggests that the film could provide an unexpected combination of humor, drama, and a deep exploration of character, making it a notable entry in the upcoming cinematic landscape.