TUNER (2026) REVIEW: COTTON CANDY CINEMA IS BACK (WRITTEN BY BEN SCANGA)

 

 

 

The characters are deeply padded but familiar, the direction is tight and engaging, and it’s just playful enough to feel like a worthwhile engagement; this is Daniel Roher’s summer, we’re all just along for the ride, attempting/hoping to participate.

Roher’s universe of cotton candy and straight lines is filled to the brim with three-dimensional characters and fast-paced situations, all of which briskly guide the audience from one narrative beat to the next. It’s almost impossible to fault its technique: pay homage to the heartthrob rock 'n' roll action flicks of 3-4 decades ago, but top it all off with just enough fantasy love story side quests to help the younger audiences relate to its coming of age themes. If you’re looking for something that sets out entirely on a voyage with the purpose of reinventing the wheel? You might not have the best time here. However, if you’re looking for a new soon-to-be Sunday TV classic, or are in the mood for some lighter-than-light viewing, this is as safe of a bet as it gets.