Roofman: A Cozy Crime Thriller
Who Knew that a True Crime Story Could Feel So Warm and Good-Natured
Paramount Pictures
I didn’t plan on watching Roofman any time soon, but it happened to be one of Regal’s Mystery Monday movies and I ended up being pleasantly surprised. Roofman feels like so many things at once, which can be conflicting to the emotions. It is hilarious at moments, but there are also moments of tenderness and sadness. I left with more feelings than the trailer led on.
How Was the Movie?
Roofman is a good watch. It’s not one of the funniest films in my book, but it’s absolutely memorable. It’s inspired by the true story of Jeffrey Manchester who robbed a bunch of McDonalds in the late 90s via roof access. Later, he escaped prison and hid out in a Toys“R”Us® for months. This helps to add some nostalgic feelings for the Millenials like myself.
Throughout the movie it turns into something almost wholesome. You forget that this guy robs businesses, and the story clearly wants you to feel something for him. There is even some holiday time in the movie, which adds to the “feel-good” vibes.
As much as I enjoyed those aspects, I couldn’t help but to think about the true crime angle more. This movie could easily be creepier if it didn't come off so innocent and cute. Channing Tatum portraying the main character probably played a role in the innocence and cuteness as well.
Jeffrey clearly had some things going on in his life that lead him to robberies, and other criminal activities, and I feel that we didn’t get enough explanation of that. I think that a little bit more on the background of why Jeffrey turned to crime would’ve added a deeper layer of connection and empathy for his story.
Paramount Pictures
Best Parts About the Movie?
Channing Tatum:
Tatum is fun in this role. I think we need to appreciate his versatility a bit more as an actor. He has taken on a variety of serious and action roles, such as Blink Twice, but he is also really funny. Usually his comedies include other comedic actors such as Jonah Hill in 21 Jump Street, but here he holds his own by himself for the most part. Seeing him as a “nice thief” and a loving father made it difficult to not like him, at least a little bit.
Blend of True Crime and Feel-Good Movie:
So when I think of a crime thriller comedy, I’m thinking more of something that is going to make me laugh a lot while not really caring too much about the character’s morals. Think Blue Streak with Martin Lawrence.
But Roofman takes it a bit further. There’s romance in here, there's family vibes, and there’s even some religion feels thrown in. You almost have to remind yourself that “this probably isn’t going to end well,” as you start feeling a familiar warmth from the movie that you typically get from films such as Where the Heart Is and Steel Magnolias.
Paramount Pictures
Is This Movie for You?
If you are a fan of feel-good comedies then you should give this movie a shot. Roofman is not overly silly or raunchy, and honestly feels like a Holiday family movie at times.
You also don’t want to miss this if you are a fan of Channing Tatum. He shines well in this role, and proves that he can be comedic, romantic, and still a bit serious all in one role.
Also, if you miss Toys“R”Us® as much as I do, this will take you on a nostalgic ride for a bit. There’s other 90’s and 2000’s gems that come back from the dead in the film for awhile, that will have you reminiscing about simpler times.
