There are so many niche jobs out there that most of us don't know about. A piano tuner is likely in that category. Tuner centers around Niki (Leo Woodall), an apprentice piano tuner who, out on his own, finds a string of hope in his mentor, Henry (Dustin Hoffman). One part romance, one part crime thriller, the film keeps things simple and, in doing so, delivers a mostly satisfying experience.
When we meet young twenty-something Niki, his troubles are numerous. But a line of hope is extended when he is taken in by his mentor, Henry, and Henry's wife, Marla (Tovah Feldshuh). Niki manages a rare chronic condition where he's "allergic" to loud sounds and must wear earplugs and headphones much of the time. His usual routine of making piano-tuning house calls with Henry is disrupted when his colleague is hospitalized. Niki is desperate to care for the two people he considers family. Faced with mounting medical bills, he plunges into a world of crime that caters to his unique musical abilities. This, while juggling his piano-tuning job and falling for music composition graduate student Ruthie (Havana Rose Liu).
Tuner marks the narrative debut of director Daniel Roher, who manages to cross genres and provide a film that is fun, romantic, thrilling, and thoughtful. Woodall and Hoffman share a great rapport as apprentice and mentor, respectively, and Niki and Ruthie's romance feels authentic without overwhelming the story as a whole. Woodall anchors the cast as the hardworking and frustrated Niki, an easy-to-root-for protagonist grappling with taking care of his loved ones while juggling a disability that has completely altered his life.
Making a film centered on being a piano tuner feels like a stroke of genius. Not only is it a niche industry that provides our leads with unique access, but it also puts Niki into the homes of the wealthy, as it requires an ear for sound. This combination of circumstance and skill makes Niki invaluable in the world of safes and stolen goods. And as specialized as his primary job may be, it's still in the world of classical music, not a field known for paying the big bucks.
A film about music should excel in sound, and Tuner delivers. Grad student Ruthie's original compositions are grandiose and striking, leaving a lasting impression on the audience, even after the story has progressed. The sound design puts us squarely in Niki's world, cringing along as loud sirens and music play in the background. The presentation makes us hyperaware of the boisterous sounds of New York City and the effects the loud noise has on our ears. It also creates an immersive world that helps you empathize with Niki's plight.
The crime thriller aspect of this film is mostly well-executed. Niki teams up with a "security" company that seems friendly enough—as long as Niki does precisely what they want. Thankfully, the crime world and its criminals stay small-time enough that they don't completely overtake the film, but rather create tension and some prominent caper set pieces.
Tuner is an impressive debut narrative film from director Daniel Roher and an excellent vehicle for White Lotus breakout Leo Woodall. It manages to be sweet, entertaining, and exciting, all within a tight 109-minute window. Grounded by an exceptional supporting cast and captivating sound design, it should encourage more films about similar niche careers.
