Channing Tatum Discusses Jump Street 3 and His R-Rated ‘Gambit’
Channing Tatum recently shared insights on his latest projects, including his upcoming film “Roofman” and the long-anticipated “Jump Street 3.” He recounted his challenging experience with home renovations, reflecting on the patience and persistence required in both life and his acting career.
Channing Tatum on “Roofman”
Tatum stars in “Roofman,” a film inspired by Jeffrey Manchester, a man notorious for robbing McDonald’s and escaping prison. The storyline delves into the psychological complexities of crime and survival. Tatum’s portrayal has garnered attention, with potential accolades like a Golden Globe nomination on the horizon.
“He’s not evil, but he does bad things,” Tatum describes his character, highlighting the film’s exploration of morality. He plans to meet the real Manchester, who is currently incarcerated in North Carolina. Tatum expressed a desire to understand Manchester’s dual nature, noting, “We all have a Bad Jeff somewhere inside us.”
Collaboration with Derek Cianfrance
Working with director Derek Cianfrance proved transformative for Tatum. The director emphasized character development, leading to an immersive filmmaking experience. “Derek is probably the most performance-loving director I’ve ever worked with,” Tatum noted, appreciating Cianfrance’s unique approach to storytelling.
Oscar-nominee Kirsten Dunst plays an essential role in “Roofman,” serving as the protagonist’s love interest. Tatum admitted his nervousness working alongside such a talented actress but found her presence reassuring during their scenes together.
Reflections on “Gambit”
Tatum also discussed the long-cherished dream of portraying Gambit from the X-Men universe. After a cameo in “Deadpool and Wolverine,” he feels hopeful about Gambit’s future in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. “If the fans really want it, I think there’s a world where Gambit could get his due,” he asserted.
Reflecting on a previously envisioned R-rated Gambit film, he noted the script featured the character in situations that would have garnered a strong adult rating. “We made Gambit the kind of character who could only exist in a movie with Deadpool,” Tatum explained.
Challenges of “Jump Street 3”
Transitioning to “Jump Street 3,” Tatum expressed frustration with the ongoing delays in bringing the film to life. Despite having access to a highly praised script, he pointed out that producer fees and budget issues have stalled development. He remarked, “I get asked more about ‘Jump Street 3’ than any other movie.”
The successful “21 Jump Street” made $201 million in 2012, followed by a sequel that grossed $331 million in 2014. Yet, the prospects of a sequel have dwindled due to financial hurdles, particularly regarding producer Neal H. Moritz’s fees, which Tatum identified as a major barrier.
Upcoming Projects
As Tatum looks ahead, he is set to star in “Cockroach,” directed by Matt Ross. He described it as “the role of a lifetime” and is eager to embrace the challenges it presents.
Tatum’s journey through Hollywood continues to unfold with new characters and projects, each showcasing his versatility and commitment to storytelling. He maintains a positive outlook, emphasizing the importance of humor amidst the chaos of the film industry.
