Tuner Movie Review: A crime caper tuned just right

Story: A talented piano tuner discovers he has the skill to crack safes, thanks to his heightened sense of hearing. His life is upended when he inadvertently helps a group of Israeli thieves break into one.Review: As such, there may not be much novelty in the basic premise of writer-director Daniel Roher and co-writer Robert Ramsey’s crime thriller — an ordinary man pushed into the world of crime and how it turns his life upside down. However, the movie proves how a good story can be built on a familiar premise, and how strong storytelling and assured direction can keep one engaged throughout. Tuner is one of those crime capers that does not rely on high-octane action, a slick protagonist, or an underdog becoming a formidable force. Niki White (Leo Woodall) is a gifted piano tuner who suffers from hyperacusis — a condition that makes his hearing so sensitive that he needs to block out the noisy world with earplugs. He works as an apprentice to veteran tuner Harry Horowitz (Dustin Hoffman).When Harry accidentally locks his safe and forgets the passcode, Niki teaches himself to crack it open. His talent is then discovered by Uri (Lior Raz), who heads a security team but also moonlights as a thief. Niki strikes a deal with him to make money so he can pay off Harry’s hospital bill after the latter suffers a stroke. Things go awry during one of the heists, and the cascading effect grips Niki, affecting his relationship with student pianist Ruthie (Havana Rose Liu).The film begins well, with Harry and Niki tuning rich people’s pianos and the entitled clients mistaking them for handymen. The duo’s friendship makes for an interesting dynamic, especially as former child prodigy Niki feels stuck in a mundane job. The narrative remains relaxed without slackening the pace. Greg O'Bryant's sharp editing and Max Behrens’s sound design make the film more layered and interesting; the din when Uri blows a foghorn to punish Niki and the subsequent silence from his point of view, or the clicking sound when he manages to crack the safe’s codes, are well executed.The movie also works so well because of the performances. Leo Woodall shines as Niki, pulling off the role of someone forced to give up his dreams because of his condition. He has quiet confidence despite his awkwardness. Dustin Hoffman, as his loud boss and somewhat of an uncle figure, delivers a strong performance, as does Tovah Feldshuh, who plays Harry’s wife, Marla. Havana Rose Liu is striking in every scene. Her romantic pairing with Woodall is outstanding, and she does an incredible job of being on edge ahead of her first big performance. She is convincing as the earnest pianist and is especially good in the scene about her first show. Lior Raz is menacing and does a fine job as the antagonist.Tuner’s premise is a tad familiar, and its ending may feel abrupt, but it is worth a watch for its assured treatment, measured pace, and performances.