Daniel Roher, a 29-year-old filmmaker, won an Oscar for his documentary 'Navalny' in 2023. However, he soon faced a creative block, questioning his ability to create again. This led him to seek inspiration from an unlikely source: a Los Angeles-based piano tuner, Peter White. Roher shadowed White, which resulted in the creation of the character Niki White, portrayed by Leo Woodall. Niki's story is a unique blend of a piano tuner's life and a safecracking thief, with a touch of Good Will Hunting and Michael Mann's Thief. Roher's decision to set the film in New York City, despite shooting in Toronto, was influenced by the American healthcare system, which he found to be a compelling dramatic foil.
Roher's eclectic filmography includes documentaries and fiction films, and he embraces the idea of being an eclectic filmmaker. His pivot to fiction was driven by personal interests and a desire to explore different creative avenues. The unconventional protagonist, Niki White, was inspired by Peter White's work as a piano tuner, and Roher's shadowing experience added depth to the character. The writing process drew comparisons to Good Will Hunting, and Roher's personal connection to the film's themes of hearing loss and hyperacusis added authenticity to the story.
Dustin Hoffman's casting was a natural fit, given his love for jazz and his past as a piano student. The film's sound design, crafted by Oscar-winning sound designer Johnnie Burn, is a key element in conveying Niki's hyperacusis. Roher and Burn worked closely to create an immersive soundscape, negotiating the complex auditory world of the protagonist. The final scene leaves room for interpretation, suggesting a potential continuation of Niki's journey.
Roher's next project, 'Positano', is a romantic caper with a larger scale and scope. It marks a significant challenge for the filmmaker, as he ventures into a foreign country without speaking the language. Despite the challenges, Roher embraces the opportunity to step outside his comfort zone, learning from his cast and crew. The film's success will further solidify Roher's eclectic and adventurous approach to filmmaking.
