In a summer devoid of the Van Cliburn Competition, music enthusiasts may find solace in the cinematic experience offered by Tuner. This brisk and self-contained thriller set in New York City evokes the stylistic essence of iconic directors like John Cassavetes and Sidney Lumet, yet it uniquely captivates audiences with its innovative sound design. Opening this weekend in three theaters across Tarrant County, the film showcases a plethora of emerging talent.
The story revolves around Niki (Leo Woodall), a professional piano tuner who travels to luxurious mansions throughout the Tri-State area, rectifying the often-neglected pianos of affluent homeowners. His acute hearing, a result of hyperacusis—a rare condition that heightens sensitivity to sound—enables him to excel in his profession. Niki’s connection to Harry Horowitz (Dustin Hoffman), his mentor and quasi-family member, adds depth to his character. When Harry falls ill and finds himself in severe medical debt, Niki turns to Uri Stern (Lior Raz), a security installer with criminal inclinations, for assistance. Niki’s unique auditory skills make him an ideal candidate for Uri’s illicit activities, particularly in safe-cracking, a role that pays well but comes with significant risks.
In terms of sound, Tuner stands out as one of the most innovative films since A Quiet Place. Niki’s heightened sensitivity to sound fosters a sense of isolation, making his connection with Ruthie (Havana Rose Liu), a gifted composition student, all the more poignant after he repairs her damaged piano. Director and co-writer Daniel Roher, known for his Oscar-winning documentary on Alexei Navalny, marks his fiction debut with this film. He skillfully manipulates sound to illustrate Niki’s auditory experiences, utilizing various techniques to muffle audio, mirroring how Niki often dampens the world around him with earplugs and noise-canceling headphones. A particularly striking scene occurs when Niki enters a pulsating dance club, where the overwhelming electronic music and Woodall’s performance vividly convey his distress.
While Niki’s sheltered existence makes it plausible that he would accept Uri’s dangerous job without fully understanding the consequences, certain plot elements, such as a vintage Rolex adorned with a pearl strap that he gifts to Ruthie, stretch credibility. This questionable choice not only raises concerns about the ethics of gifting stolen goods but also leads to a convoluted plot twist that threatens to undermine the film’s integrity.
Nevertheless, the film maintains its momentum. Composer Marius de Vries provides a compelling piano-and-orchestral score that, while somewhat grandiose, convincingly reflects the talent of a dedicated student. Although the actors do not play the piano themselves, Liu, with her diverse background and striking hazel eyes, delivers a nuanced performance that contrasts sharply with her more comedic role in Bottoms. Woodall, previously seen in Nuremberg and The White Lotus, excels in portraying a physically imposing yet vulnerable character, especially in a pivotal moment when Niki reveals how his condition thwarted his aspirations of becoming a concert pianist. Their performances, combined with Roher’s character development, render Tuner a refreshing addition to the cinematic landscape.
Tuner
Starring Leo Woodall and Havana Rose Liu. Directed by Daniel Roher. Written by Daniel Roher and Robert Ramsey. Rated R.
