TIFF 2025 Review: Roofman
Channing Tatum and Kirsten Dunst Bring Heart to a True Crime Tale in Roofman
Roofman had its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF 2025), starring Channing Tatum and Kirsten Dunst, two beloved early-2000s icons who finally share the screen again. Directed by Oscar-nominated filmmaker Derek Cianfrance (Blue Valentine), the film tells the unbelievable true story of Jeffrey Manchester, better known as the “Rooftop Robber.”
Going into this, I had no idea who the Rooftop Robber was and that made watching it even more fascinating. The film opens with Jeffrey (played by Tatum) robbing a McDonald’s, and surprisingly, it’s almost… charming? There’s something oddly endearing about how friendly and polite he is during the heists, which perfectly explains how he got his nickname, “the friendly robber.”
Of course, things take a turn when Jeffrey escapes prison and hides out in a Toys R Us, using baby monitors to keep an eye on the store while secretly living inside. Eventually, he meets Leigh (Kirsten Dunst), a kind-hearted employee who unknowingly complicates his secret double life.
Tatum really shines here. It’s one of those roles that balances his natural goofiness with genuine emotional depth. You can see the layers of regret, loneliness, and longing underneath Jeffrey’s charm. Despite his flaws and questionable choices, you can’t help but root for him. The film keeps you wondering: Will he keep running, start over, or finally face the truth?
Dunst brings warmth and quiet strength to Leigh, grounding the story with heart. Together, they have easy chemistry that makes the story feel more human than criminal.
At its core, Roofman is a surprisingly tender story about second chances and the strange ways people search for connection even in the most unlikely places. It’s funny at times, heartfelt in others, and left me with an unexpected sense of warmth.
A charming, offbeat true crime story with humor, heart, and two stars who make you remember why you fell in love with them in the first place.
Watch the trailer for Roofman below
Paramount Pictures releases Roofman in theatres on October 10th, 2025
