In the vibrant streets of New York, where the precise tuning of a Steinway can unlock far more than melody, TUNER delivers a stylish fusion of romance, drama, and high-stakes heist suspense. Academy Award-winning director Daniel Roher makes his narrative feature debut with this captivating story of a gifted young piano tuner whose extraordinary ear draws dangerous criminal attention, while he forges an unexpected connection with composition student Ruthie. Starring Leo Woodall in the lead role alongside Havana Rose Liu, with the legendary Dustin Hoffman as mentor Harry Horowitz, the film also features Tony Award-winner Tovah Feldshuh, Jean Reno, and Lior Raz. In an exclusive conversation with AMFM Magazine’s Paul Salfen, Havana Rose Liu and Leo Woodall opened up about the lightning-quick decisions that brought them aboard, the profound privilege of working with a screen icon, and the personal rituals that helped them conquer fear on set.
When the offer came in, Leo Woodall didn’t need much time to decide. “It was pretty quick,” he told Paul Salfen. “I read it, I immediately wanted to watch it and be part of it.” The chance to work with Dustin Hoffman sealed the deal for the rising star.
Havana Rose Liu felt the weight of the role more heavily at first. A self-described non-pianist, she hesitated after reading the script, unsure she could convincingly portray a character who must play complex pieces on camera. Everything changed during her meeting with director Daniel Roher. Both artists sketched constantly during their conversation, and Roher’s complete belief in her potential gave her the courage she needed. “He believed in me so completely to be able to get where I needed to go with the piano,” she shared. “Ultimately it was his boost that made me feel like, okay, maybe I can brave the fear of standing across from Dustin Hoffman and having to play a piano in front of him, an instrument I barely play.”
The duo’s favorite stories from set revolved around the legendary Dustin Hoffman, who clearly left a lasting impression. Leo recalled a lighthearted moment when he playfully “kidnapped” Hoffman in a van during a break. “I just drove off because I thought it would be funny… I looked over at Dustin and he just looked so happy,” Leo laughed. “It was like he was on Route One with the top down. I can’t believe that I’m just in a car with Dustin Hoffman, even against his will. He just shines so bright.”
Havana experienced a quieter but equally meaningful side of the icon. Hoffman frequently pulled her aside to offer wisdom and personal anecdotes, especially when nerves ran high. “He would sort of give these little anecdotes about his own life, or when he was nervous… it was just the most grounding and comforting thing because he became so human,” she said. “To feel him be so vulnerable and human and take me under his wing in those moments just felt like such an honor.”
When it came time to step into big, high-pressure scenes, both actors relied on simple but powerful personal rituals. Leo’s mantra was direct: “I don’t screw this up.” Havana turned to a natural remedy, eating a banana before her piano performances to keep her hands steady. “They’re a natural beta blocker,” she explained with a smile, adding that it might become a permanent pre-shoot ritual.
Asked what advice they would offer aspiring artists, Havana offered words that feel especially fitting for AMFM’s audience: “Everyone, every single person, has their own uniqueness and their own sort of special glow about them. And I think that should always be used and give you confidence in bringing your character to life.” Leo agreed wholeheartedly, playfully adding, “Let the world fit you better — and also maybe eat more bananas.”
With its fresh premise, powerhouse performances, and genuine heart, TUNER is a cinematic experience that reminds us why we fall in love with movies — and with the artists who make them. Don’t miss it.
