Tehran’s prestigious Arasbaran Cultural Center will host a special screening and critical analysis of the crime thriller Tuner. Renowned film critic Kourosh Jahed will lead the discussion following the screening. Consequently, film enthusiasts and local scholars are expected to gather on Sunday evening to examine the acclaimed Canadian production.
Canadian filmmaker Daniel Roher directed Tuner from an original screenplay that he co-wrote with veteran screenwriter Robert Ramsey. The film combines music and heist elements while exploring classical music and organized crime through the story of an exceptionally talented piano tuner.
British actor Leo Woodall stars as Niki White alongside an international ensemble cast. Legendary actor Dustin Hoffman portrays veteran tuner Harry Horowitz, who mentors Niki through his professional struggles. Havana Rose Liu, Lior Raz, Tovah Feldshuh, and Jean Reno also appear in supporting roles.
Niki suffers from hyperacusis, a condition that makes ordinary sounds extremely painful. However, his heightened sensitivity allows him to detect subtle mechanical movements inside high-security safes. An organized criminal group led by Uri eventually recruits Niki to help break into sophisticated residential vaults.
The high-stakes story escalates as Niki becomes involved with international criminals targeting $18 million. Meanwhile, his relationship with composer Ruthie gradually reconnects him with his abandoned musical ambitions. However, violent confrontations with Uri’s crew leave Niki injured and partially deafened by gunfire.
His partial hearing loss eventually reduces his extreme sensitivity to sound, allowing him to return to classical piano. The film was selected for the Toronto International Film Festival’s 2025 Canada’s Top Ten list. Furthermore, Roher and Ramsey received Best Screenplay honors from the Vancouver Film Critics Circle.
Cultural venues across Tehran continue to organize international cinema screenings and discussions to encourage global artistic dialogue. Local film historians expect strong interest in Sunday’s analysis at Arasbaran Cultural Center. Ultimately, Tuner demonstrates how innovative sensory storytelling can bring fresh perspectives to the traditional crime-thriller genre.