In a remarkable feat of movie magic, the “Roofman” production team took on the task of breathing life back into an entire Toys “R” Us store, complete with beloved items like Tickle Me Elmos and a special Marvel Easter egg for Channing Tatum. This meticulous recreation wasn’t just about aesthetics; it was about authenticity and attention to detail, making the set a crucial element of director Derek Cianfrance’s vision for the film.
Reimagining a Bygone Era
Derek Cianfrance, known for his commitment to realism, tasked production designer Inbal Weinberg with a unique challenge: to recreate a circa-2004 Toys “R” Us store. Weinberg’s search led her to an abandoned location near Charlotte, N.C., a relic from the iconic toy retailer’s golden days before its unfortunate bankruptcy in 2018.
“There was nothing there. The floor had been scraped, and we really had to start from scratch,” Weinberg recalls. With the store stripped bare, the team had to meticulously reconstruct the lively ambiance of the early 2000s.
Bringing Toys and Memories Back to Life
The plot of “Roofman” centers around Jeffrey Manchester, portrayed by Channing Tatum, and his escapades that earned him the nickname “Roofman.” To support this narrative, Cianfrance wanted an authentic backdrop. “Derek said, ‘I want Channing to be able to walk around and grab whatever he wants,’” Weinberg explains, emphasizing the need for a fully stocked and realistic toyland.
Weinberg faced the immense challenge of filling a 24,000 square foot space with period-appropriate toys. Collaborating with her team, she sourced thousands of images and catalogs, even resorting to watching old Toys “R” Us training videos. The art department excelled at finding iconic items like Tickle Me Elmo dolls, Bad Buggy toy cars, and even a Hillary Clinton Barbie doll, ensuring every detail was perfect.
Transforming with the Seasons
To capture the film’s timeline accurately, the set also had to reflect changing seasons. “We had to showcase different graphics, like back-to-school time, Halloween, and Thanksgiving,” Weinberg notes, highlighting the dynamic nature of the project.
Authenticity was further enhanced by insights from the real Jeffrey Manchester. Director Cianfrance maintained regular contact with him to recreate the hidden space Manchester used, incorporating details like hiding behind the bike display. It was crucial to visually represent this refuge, as Tatum needed to “build his own nest” while filming.
A Special Surprise
Adding a personal touch, the crew embedded a special treat for Tatum. “We got some of the action figures from Marvel, including the one Channing is,” shares Weinberg. This surprise delighted the actor, discovering his own likeness amid the nostalgia-rich environment.
This project was not just about setting a stage but crafting an expansive experience that fully immerses both the actor and audience. It’s a testament to the power of dedication, creativity, and nostalgia — rebuilding a beloved world one toy at a time.
