Take 69: Tuner

Tuner is an interesting hodge-podge: part drama, part love story, part heist film, it is the story of Niko (Leo Woodall), a gifted piano tuner who suffers from hyperacusis, a rare hearing disorder that makes everyday sounds feel unbearable loud and even painful. It is base of this condition that he had to give up on pursuing a career as a pianist but it is also r the reason he has such a fine ear for piano tuning. He also randomly finds out that this ear translates to being able to hear the tumblers in safes. When his mentor and surrogate father suffers a medical emergency, Niko uses his new found talent to make fast money by hooking up with a band of thieves but of course, ends up in over his head. Oh, and there is a girl.

Anothrer Cinemark Secret Movie Series movie. Prior to this, wasn’t familiar with Leo Woodall prior to this film so whasn’t sure of what to expect. Would he just be another pretty face? Almost positive he was in every scene, so as the title character, dude is responsible for pretty much carrying the whole movie. And carry he does. His performance is evocative of Channing Tatum in Step Up. But Leo also brings a bit of aloofness to the role. Very rarely does he seem bothered by what’s going around, by, and to him, until he is and it works. Dustin Hoffman as Henry is an absolute lovsble scene stealer. It'd no wonder Niki is so willing to bend over backwards to help him as much possible. The third major character was Ruthie, played Havana Rose Liu. She reminded me a lot of a young Lucy Liu. She dldn’t get a ton to do and was pretty much the straight (wo)man. She does this well though.

The story is totally engaging. It's a tight hour and forty-nine. There are some twists and turns thst keep you guessing. Since Niki is metaphorically in bed with criminals, there is a fine line the character can walking before getting in too deep. We as the audience will still support them to a point. Will he cross that point?

Niki’s condition is also a really interesting on to portray. In some ways, it’s almost a super power. There are some cool audio tricks employed to convey what it might be like for him and how he has to navigate. Good stuff indeed.

I dug this one a lot. Great acting, cool storytelling techniques, well-crafted characters— so much going for it. My only minor gripe is the ending. It almost felt rushed and though fairly satisfying, it could have used a tad more punch. But it definitely l didn’t take a lot away from my enjoyment. Another win for the Secret Movie Series.

My score: 9.2

Did any of you TUNE in for this week’s musing? Let me know by leaving a comment. And until next time…