Channing Tatum Leads “Roofman” Fall Film Season’s Most Anticipated Biopic

This fall, audiences can expect a dynamic new entry in the true-crime genre with “Roofman,” a biographical crime comedy-drama directed by Derek Cianfrance and starring Channing Tatum. The movie tells the real-life story of Jeffrey Manchester, a former United States Army Reserve officer whose unusual string of robberies—entering fast food restaurants through their roofs—earned him the moniker “Roofman” . Joining Tatum are Kirsten Dunst, Ben Mendelsohn, Peter Dinklage, LaKeith Stanfield, Juno Temple, Uzo Aduba, and more, forming a cast that reflects a broad spectrum of talent and identities .

“Roofman” will make its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 6, 2025. Paramount Pictures and Miramax will release the film in U.S. theaters on October 10, 2025, positioning it as a centerpiece of the fall movie season .

At the heart of “Roofman” is the complex figure of Jeffrey Manchester, whose criminal exploits and ability to evade law enforcement—including living undetected inside a Toys “R” Us—captured national attention in the late 1990s and early 2000s . The film explores the personal motivations behind Manchester’s crimes, his relationships, and his struggle to find belonging and purpose after leaving the military.

The film’s ensemble cast includes several actors celebrated for their advocacy and representation, such as Uzo Aduba and Juno Temple, both of whom have portrayed LGBTQ+ characters in acclaimed works . While “Roofman” centers on a cisgender, heterosexual protagonist, the film’s casting and creative leadership reflect a growing commitment in Hollywood to diverse storytelling and inclusion.

Director Derek Cianfrance is known for nuanced, character-driven films that delve into the emotional lives of outsiders and misfits, such as “Blue Valentine” and “The Place Beyond the Pines.” His approach promises to bring depth and empathy to the portrayal of Manchester, while also providing space for supporting characters to shine—potentially offering queer-coded readings and subtexts that LGBTQ+ filmgoers often find meaningful .

Film industry observers are already predicting that “Roofman” will be a standout at TIFF, with early buzz focusing on Tatum’s performance and the film’s blend of comedy, drama, and suspense . The movie’s theatrical release in October positions it as a potential contender in the upcoming awards season, where questions of representation and authentic storytelling are often at the forefront of industry debates.

For LGBTQ+ media, “Roofman” offers a springboard for discussion on how mainstream films can engage queer audiences even when not explicitly centered on LGBTQ+ narratives. From coded representation to the significance of chosen family and survival against the odds, the film’s thematic currents will likely inspire think pieces, community screenings, and conversations about the evolving landscape of queer inclusion in Hollywood.

As “Roofman” prepares to hit screens, LGBTQ+ audiences are encouraged to watch for more updates from the film’s creators and cast. Whether for its true-crime intrigue, its star-studded ensemble, or its undercurrents of outsider resilience, “Roofman” is set to be one of the most talked-about releases of the season.