Channing Tatum and Kirsten Dunst Discuss Nude Scene and Personal Toys on Set

Channing Tatum and Kirsten Dunst Reflect on Filming Nude Scene and Toys Taken from Toys R Us Set in "Roofman"

Three weeks after the release of Roofman on streaming platforms, Channing Tatum and Kirsten Dunst shared insights into the making of the film. The movie, directed by Derek Cianfrance, tells the true story of Jeff Manchester, a criminal who famously robbed multiple locations through their roofs, including a large Toys R Us store.

Channing Tatum portrayed Manchester, while Kirsten Dunst played Leigh Wainscott, the real woman Manchester fell in love with under an alias. Tatum revealed he prepared for the role by speaking to Manchester daily for two months, despite limited 15-minute prison calls. He described Manchester as hopeful and mentally strong, which surprised him given the man’s criminal background.

Tatum also opened up about the challenging nude scene where his character runs naked through the Toys R Us, leaping over bike racks. He said director Derek Cianfrance purposely kept him uncomfortable on set to capture authenticity. "Derek never wanted me to feel comfortable," Tatum admitted. There were discussions about blurring or censoring parts of the scene, but Tatum preferred to keep it natural without removing or exaggerating anything.

The film recreated the Toys R Us store in exacting detail, with production designer Inbal Weinberg ensuring every aisle, toy box, and floor tile was consistent. This allowed actors to improvise freely during filming. Tatum and Dunst revealed some toys from the set made it home with them. Tatum took a giant teddy bear and several comic book character figures like Gambit and Deadpool for his daughter. Dunst admitted she stole pajamas and Swedish Fish candy for her children.

Both actors appreciated director Derek Cianfrance’s minimal rehearsal approach. Kirsten Dunst described their method as improvisational, focusing on creating authentic family and work dynamics rather than running scripted dialogue. This technique, combined with the fully functional store set, helped bring realism to the story.

Tatum reflected on the emotional complexity of portraying a man who manipulates people yet evokes sympathy. The warmth of the church scene contrasted with the loneliness of the toy store, illustrating the duality of Manchester’s character. Meanwhile, Dunst valued capturing Leigh’s grace and resilience as a single mother involved in such complicated circumstances.

Roofman stands out not only for its true-crime narrative but also for its unique production elements, including the stark nude scene and attention to detail in recreating an iconic retail space. The behind-the-scenes stories from Tatum and Dunst add depth to the film’s portrayal of its complex real-life characters.