Havana Rose Liu Shines in “Tuner,” a Playful Heist Romance Premiering at Telluride
Telluride, CO – Havana Rose Liu delivers a captivating performance in “Tuner,” a stylish and tonally nimble heist romance that premiered at the 2025 Telluride Film Festival. The film,marking director Roher’s first foray into narrative filmmaking,balances lighthearted humor with the high stakes of safe-cracking and burgeoning romance,ultimately showcasing Liu’s ability to carry a complex emotional weight.
The review highlights a narrative built on a “rudimentary understanding” of genre tropes, yet manages to surprise with a important third-act twist that recontextualizes the entire film as a fantasy.While acknowledging some plot contrivances – such as Niki‘s ability to pay off a substantial medical debt in large cash sums – the reviewer notes the film’s success hinges on audience investment in the central love story. Liu, as Ruthie, is central to this investment, though the review suggests she is “ultimately forced to carry too much of the burden” in portraying the emotional core of the relationship.
“Tuner” distinguishes itself visually with inventive camerawork, especially during scenes depicting Niki (played by Hoffman) expertly cracking safes. Close-ups of the lock mechanisms and creative angles – like a fisheye reflection of his face – contribute to a “satisfying process to watch unfold,” enhanced by sound designer Johnnie Burn’s (“The Zone of Interest”) expert work.
Despite its playful approach, the film doesn’t shy away from darker themes. Roher successfully navigates a “tonal tightrope between light humor and the high-stakes world,” and demonstrates a willingness to experiment stylistically. This is underscored by the film’s ending, where an emotional moment featuring Liu is deliberately undercut with a comedic line from Niki, eliciting a positive reaction from the Telluride audience.
the review concludes with a “Grade: B-,” noting that “Tuner” is a “pleasurable ride” and a promising debut for Roher, largely thanks to the strength of its performances, particularly Liu’s. The film is currently seeking U.S. distribution.
