Given the fact that it’s dialogue heavy, some of the humor in this two hour and a half crime comedy might fall flat for viewers unfamiliar with the Russian language. It really takes a while for Andrei to run his con, considering how often he gets roped into performing some tunes and listening into lengthy gossip sessions with his wealthy old clientele. But rather than rely on lazy stereotypes, filmmaker Kira Muratova instead takes the time to get to know these characters in the gloriously maximalist house and the absurd differences between them. The Tuner won’t be for everyone, but it might resonate to those familiar with post-Soviet Ukraine.
A young piano tuner befriends two rich old-ladies, and plots, with the help of his girlfriend, to betray their trust and steal from them.
