Now, my headline may make this film sound so contrived and artificial, particularly since it is based on actual events. Of course, every movie based on fact takes some artistic liberties with its source material. However, according to the clips shown during the movie’s closing credits, most of this story did, in fact, happen.
Regardless of this element, writer/director Derek Cianfrance and co-writer Kirt Gunn use their skills and talents as filmmakers and storytellers to deliver a movie that is compelling, highly entertaining, and absolutely lovable. The entire cast of the film deserves great praise for bringing the filmmakers’ vision to life. Roofman stars Channing Tatum and Kirsten Dunst, and their acting talents make this “reenactment” of the story feel even more genuine.
Tatum stars as Jeffrey Manchester, a military veteran with various talents, skills, and an undeniable intellect that have helped him navigate life. After being discharged, Jeffrey’s only goal is to take care of his children, which he shares with his children’s mother (Melonie Diaz). Though he means well, Jeffrey resorts to a life of thievery to give what he can to his babies; however, this decision makes his life more problematic after he is caught and sentenced to prison. Desperate to escape so that he can be a part of his children’s lives, Jeffrey’s skills of observation allow him to escape prison. However, instead of fleeing the country, he decides to remain as close as he can to his family. Things get further complicated when he begins to fall in love with local Leigh Wainscott (Dunst) and her daughters.
After watching the trailer for Roofman, I knew that this movie would deliver a very fascinating story. Still, like other movies based on actual events, I was uncertain if the filmmakers would pull it off. The answer is yes. The mix of writing, direction, and acting makes this film work, not only as an engrossing piece of cinema, but also as a lovely showcase of acting talent. Cianfrance and Gunn find a solid balance of fantasy and reality here. The various beats feel true to life, mixing genuine humor, love, and, of course, the desperation and skills of its protagonist.
Channing Tatum has always had natural charisma and an undeniable screen presence. Here, he puts a great deal of heart and passion into his Jeffrey. It isn’t exactly a game-changing turn for the actor, as it mostly feels like Tatum, but one that is projected and filtered through the characteristics of the real-life person on whom his character is based. Kirsten Dunst is absolutely lovable and an essential part of this movie as the love interest, Leigh. It is easy to see why Jeffrey falls for her and why he is willing to take insane risks to spend time with her and her daughters.
The movie also features outstanding performances by the supporting cast members, including Peter Dinklage, Ben Mendelsohn, Uzo Aduba, LaKeith Stanfield, and Juno Temple. Most of these actors have limited screen time, but make their presence known and recognized. All of these characters seem to love and care for Jeffrey to varying degrees, but come across as realistic and genuine.
If I have a complaint about this movie, it would be that the romance feels a little rushed. I understand that whirlwind love affairs can occur in real life, but perhaps the depth of this relationship feels a bit much. Still, I thoroughly enjoyed Roofman and highly recommend it as a lovely and utterly charming movie. Sometimes, the truth is wilder than fiction