How Ryan Coogler Spotted a ‘Roofman’ Theme Before Derek Cianfrance

Derek Cianfrance Returns with Roofman, A True Crime Story of Unlikely Love.Director Derek Cianfrance is back with his first feature film in nearly a decade. The new movie, Roofman, hits theaters nationwide on October 10th. It stars Channing Tatum and Kirsten Dunst in a story based on astonishing real events.The film tells the true story of Jeffrey Manchester, an Army veteran turned prolific robber. His unique method of entering restaurants through rooftops earned him his infamous nickname.

From Development to Screen: A Long-Awaited Project

Cianfrance last directed a feature film with 2016’s The Light Between Oceans. In the intervening years, he focused on family and directed the acclaimed HBO limited series I Know This Much Is True. That project, which he views as a long film, earned star Mark Ruffalo an Emmy award.The journey to Roofman involved a long development and writing process. Cianfrance co-wrote the script with Kirt Gunn, eventually tailoring the lead role for Channing Tatum. The director’s meticulous approach ensured the story remained authentic to its real-life inspiration.

A Story of Humanity and Redemption

The film explores Manchester’s attempt to build a new life while evading capture. He forms a deep connection with a single mother, played by Kirsten Dunst, and becomes a surrogate father to her children. This theme of non-biological parenthood is a recurring motif in Cianfrance’s work.The director noted the real-life couple’s lasting impact on each other. Their final meeting, depicted in the film’s closing scenes, is drawn directly from their actual experiences. This moment of grace and forgiveness became the emotional core of the entire movie.

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Cianfrance’s Roofman delivers a poignant and humanizing look at a man caught between his past mistakes and his desire for connection. The film is a significant and accessible return for one of America’s most thoughtful filmmakers.

Thought you’d like to know

Is Roofman based on a true story?

Yes, the film is based on the real-life story of Jeffrey Manchester. He was an Army veteran who committed a series of robberies by entering through restaurant roofs in the early 2000s.

Who stars in the new Derek Cianfrance film?

Channing Tatum plays the lead role of Jeffrey Manchester. Kirsten Dunst stars as Leigh Wainscott, the single mother he meets while on the run.

What is the release date for Roofman?

Roofman is scheduled for a nationwide release in movie theaters on October 10th. The film is distributed by Paramount Pictures.

What is the tone of the new film?

Director Derek Cianfrance describes the tone as a mix of drama, romance, and comedy. It is considered his most accessible film to date.

Where was the real Roofman finally captured?

After a six-month manhunt, Manchester was discovered hiding inside a Toys “R” Us store. He had built a secret living space behind a false wall.