Havana Rose Liu on Finding Herself in 'Tuner' and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

Havana Rose Liu: A Rising Star

Havana Rose Liu is undoubtedly one of the most talked-about young actors in Hollywood today. Following her impressive turn in 2023's Bottoms, she has swiftly secured her place in the entertainment landscape. It's not just about the roles; Liu's range spans across TV shows like Hal & Harper to her Off-Broadway debut in 2025's All Nighter. Recently, she's been cast in A24's highly-anticipated adaptation of the popular video game, Elden Ring, crafted by the visionary Alex Garland.

Co-Starring with Legends

Before embracing her future in a hotly awaited project, Liu stars alongside seasoned actors Dustin Hoffman and Leo Woodall in Tuner. Directed and co-written by Daniel Roher, known for his award-winning documentaries, this film is Roher's first foray into feature filmmaking. The narrative pivots around Woodall's character, a piano tuner with a unique hearing condition, which inadvertently assists him in pulling off heists. This edgy plot inevitably complicates his budding romance with conservatory student Ruthie, played by Liu.

“It isn't just a crime film; it's about human connection amid chaos,” she asserts.

The Emotional Journey of 'Tuner'

Tuner expertly condenses its drama into pure emotion. It sidesteps the documentary mimicry that could easily weigh down its premise, instead opting for a grounded yet compelling narrative style. The film's success stems from its ability to draw viewers in with unfiltered realism, fueled by soundscapes that evoke jazz elements, enhancing the emotional crescendo.

Conquering Imposter Syndrome

My conversation with Liu revealed insights into her personal journey and struggles with imposter syndrome—a common thread among many talented individuals in the entertainment business. “For the longest time, I felt like I was faking it,” she admits, reflecting on her unique ability to fuse her theatrical experience with film. “Engaging in theater really helped ground me and alleviate some of that pressure I felt for years.”

Finding Identity Through Performance

When we discuss her early piano skills in preparation for this role, she recounts, “Before the film, I'd play a one-point-five out of ten. Now, I'd say I'm crawling up to a four.” Her passion for the craft was evident as she discussed plans to continue piano lessons as soon as filming wrapped. “It's not like riding a bike; you must keep practicing to maintain that skill,” Liu states firmly.

The Director's Unique Approach

Liu reflects on working with Roher, emphasizing how his documentary background informed a different style of filmmaking. She describes it as a dynamic environment where improvisation was welcomed, allowing for authenticity to shine through. “Being able to foster that creativity brought the character alive,” she explains. Liu's enthusiasm for this freedom was palpable: “We were six times more passionate, allowing us to discover new layers daily.”

Understanding the Landscape of Fame

We shift to discuss her rapidly rising fame—an experience that can often feel overwhelming. “Honestly,” she quips, “I don't mind being told I'm having a moment, but it's an interesting label.” This suggests a deep self-awareness, a quality Liu showcases throughout our dialogue.

Future Ambitions

Liu is certainly enjoying her artistic evolution. “Every project is like a wild ride, and working with legends like Hoffman—I mean, it's surreal!” The enigma of her career trajectory, from modeling to critically-acclaimed films, reflects that her passion for acting outweighs any labels society imposes.

In Conclusion

As she continues to navigate the maze between theater and film, Havana Rose Liu stands as a testament to resilience and creativity in a demanding industry. Each project offers a chance to further unearth her artistic identity. Tuner is out now in limited release and is set to expand in theaters nationwide on May 29. Keep an eye on this rising star; there's so much more yet to come.