POP UP CINEMA BRIGHTON

You might be forgiven for assuming this true-crime comedy-drama is merely a popcorn vehicle for the indisputable talents of its star, Channing Tatum (Magic Mike, Foxcatcher). In reality, Roofman—directed by U.S. indie film stalwart Derek Cianfrance (Blue Valentine, The Place Beyond the Pines) is filled with deft, thoughtful touches that elevate it into one of the most surprisingly poignant and enjoyable pieces of crowd-pleasing cinema in recent memory.

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The film tells the true story of Jeffrey Manchester (Tatum), a struggling ex–Army Ranger and father who turns his skills to robbing a string of McDonald’s restaurants by breaking in through their roofs—earning the media nickname “Roofman.” Alongside a daring prison escape and a six-month stint secretly living inside a functioning Toys “R” Us store, the heart of this real-life caper emerges when he falls for Leigh (the ever excellent Kirsten Dunst - The Virgin Suicides, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, The Power of the Dog, Civil War), a recently divorced mother who is drawn to his undeniable charm.

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This uncharacteristically light-hearted drama from a director better known for brooding intensity navigates its necessary tonal shifts with remarkable ease, resulting in an oddly compelling, funny, quirky, and quietly affecting film that surprises at every turn. Expertly tailored to Tatum’s natural charisma (arguably delivering a career-best performance) he is supported by an outstanding ensemble, including LaKeith Stanfield (Get Out, Sorry to Bother You, Uncut Gems, Knives Out), Juno Temple (Ted Lasso, Fargo), Peter Dinklage (Game of Thrones), and Ben Mendelsohn (Animal Kingdom, Rogue One).

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Beautifully shot and assuredly directed, Cianfrance allows the shaggy-dog, lovable-rogue elements to flourish without ever losing sight of the story’s social grounding. A glorious exercise in noughties nostalgia, stylish crowd-pleasing filmmaking, and stealth heartbreak, Roofman feels destined to become a sleeper hit. Best experienced with an audience, it’s a modern popcorn movie with genuine soul—and one that comes highly recommended.