Meeting Cute: Peter Dinklage's First Encounter with Channing Tatum was a "Full Monty" Scene in "Roofman"

During a press conference for the upcoming true-crime drama ‘Roofman,’ director Derek Cianfrance shared an anecdote about a pivotal moment on set: Channing Tatum, who stars as Jeffrey Manchester, was performing a clothing-free scene when he first met his co-star Peter Dinklage, who plays Mitch in the film. The director’s candid recounting of this encounter offered a rare glimpse into the behind-the-scenes camaraderie and professionalism that shaped the production .

The director set the scene by explaining the context. In an interview with People Magazine he recounted, “There’s this big scene in the movie where [Dinklage] catches Channing Tatum showering in the middle of the night." Elaborating on the difference between page and stage, he added: "You can write that scene, but then you have to shoot it. And it’s… Channing had to show up.”

Cianfrance described the first encounter as one he planned with a little mischief. “It was pretty fun having Peter and Channing interact that way," he related. "That was the first time they met because I tried to keep my actors apart because I wanted them to be surprised."

Added the filmmaker: “So, Channing and Peter never saw each other. The first time Peter ever saw Channing was full monty.”

And that was just part of the set's comedic energy. “It seemed like every moment with Peter Dinklage , everything he did was interesting," Cianfrance said. "His comic facility was infectious."

"Roofman," directed and co-written by Cianfrance alongside Kirt Gunn, is inspired by the true story of Jeffrey Manchester, an escaped convict who hid on the roof of a toy store and forged unexpected relationships while living under a new identity. The film stars Channing Tatum, Peter Dinklage, and Kirsten Dunst, and is set for release in October 2025 .

The film’s narrative explores complex themes of belonging, trust, and the ways people reinvent themselves in the face of adversity. Cianfrance, known for his sensitive and nuanced directorial style, has previously championed inclusive casting and storytelling that foregrounds the experiences of marginalized communities .

In interviews, Cianfrance has spoken about the importance of creating a set where all identities are respected and affirmed. “We wanted everyone—regardless of their gender, sexuality, or background—to feel safe and valued. That’s the only way to do justice to stories that deal with transformation and authenticity,” he said .