Roofman Trailer Release Date Cast and Details

"Roofman" Trailer, Release Date, Cast, and Story Details

The unusual phenomenon of people secretly living in retail stores has captured pop culture’s curiosity, and this year’s hottest crime drama, "Roofman," brings one of the wildest true stories from that trend to the big screen. Directed and written by acclaimed filmmaker Derek Cianfrance, best known for "Blue Valentine," "Roofman" is set to make its theatrical debut on October 10, 2025, promising a mix of suspense, quirky romance, and an unforgettable true crime tale.

A True Story Stranger Than Fiction

"Roofman" retells the incredible saga of Jeffrey Manchester, an ex-Army Ranger whose criminal exploits in the late 1990s earned him the notorious nickname "Roofman." Renowned for breaking into over 40 McDonald’s restaurants across the United States—entering through the roofs—Manchester took a dramatic turn after escaping from prison. He managed to live undetected inside a Charlotte, North Carolina Toys "R" Us store for six months, eluding authorities while plotting his next move. Manchester survived off baby food and kids’ snacks and kept fit by cycling around the toy store after hours, all while maintaining an ordinary life in the eyes of local residents.

The "Roofman" Film: Plot and Main Characters

Channing Tatum leads the cast as Jeffrey Manchester, portraying the former soldier’s struggle to reconcile a life of crime with the possibility of redemption. The movie adds an emotional twist by introducing Leigh, played by Kirsten Dunst, a divorced mother who becomes the object of Manchester’s affection after they meet via the store’s surveillance cameras. As romance blossoms, Manchester’s balancing act between love and secrecy launches a high-stakes cat-and-mouse chase with law enforcement looming ever closer.

Joining Tatum and Dunst is a notable ensemble: Peter Dinklage plays Leigh’s abrasive boss, LaKeith Stanfield appears as Manchester’s crime partner, and supporting roles are filled out by Ben Mendelsohn, Juno Temple, Melonie Diaz, Uzo Aduba, Lily Collias, and Jimmy O. Yang. The film’s musical tone is set by needle drops like “Running Down a Dream,” underscoring its Southern noir vibe set in Charlotte.

Watch the official "Roofman" trailer to catch a first glimpse of the cast and crime drama flair.

The Real Jeffrey Manchester: From McDonald’s Heists to Urban Legend

Manchester’s story reads like a Hollywood script. A military veteran, he orchestrated dozens of rooftop break-ins at fast-food restaurants, mainly McDonald’s, throughout the late ’90s. After a stint in prison for his crimes, he made headlines again by vanishing into a Circuit City and then a Toys "R" Us—outwitting police and the stores’ staff for months.

Manchester’s softer side also makes it into the film: In a bold move to impress his love interest, he was reportedly known to donate stolen toys to Christmas charity drives during his time on the run. Ultimately, his freedom ended with his capture and return to prison, where he currently serves time for what police dubbed his “one last big job.” Read more about the real Jeffrey Manchester’s spree and how fact has become stranger than fiction.

Derek Cianfrance’s Return and Awards Buzz

"Roofman" marks director Derek Cianfrance’s first feature since 2016’s "The Light Between Oceans," making this one of the year’s most anticipated releases for film festival season. Distributed by Miramax and Paramount Pictures, the film is expected to hit major stops like TIFF and potentially Venice, with Oscar speculation already swirling among critics. Get a preview of early reactions and images in industry coverage as the festival circuit draws near.

Social Buzz and Official Channels

Paramount Pictures has rolled out a robust social media campaign for "Roofman." Fans can follow updates, behind-the-scenes content, and the latest news via the film’s official Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and Facebook pages. Early chatter has already spilled onto platforms like TikTok, where sneak peeks and reactions are circulating among movie buffs.

Release Date

Circle your calendar – "Roofman" opens exclusively in theaters on October 10, 2025. With its real-life origins, gripping performances, and an acclaimed director at the helm, it’s shaping up to be a can’t-miss event for true crime and film fans alike.

Keep an eye on the official Roofman website for news, screenings, and exclusive content as the release draws near.