German PremiereUnited States 2025Language:EnglishDirector:Jeff ToyeWriter:Jeff ToyeWith:Philip Labes & Jason MrazProducer:Sunya Mara72 min, Colour

During the coronavirus lockdown in the USA, Philip Labes uses his guitar and his TikTok account in order to overcome his own isolation. He sets himself the goal of writing and recording 30 songs in 30 days – and goes viral. The witty songs and his congenial manner capture the spirit of the times. Even Labes’ idol, Grammy winner Jason Mraz, hears about this and invites Labes to join him on tour as a supporting act. Will Labes succeed in making the leap from the Internet to the stage? THE OPENER is a tour documentary about a young musician and his dreams. The tender portrait recounts fears and happiness, loneliness and community and provides us with the feeling of a friendly embrace 

Director's Biography:After graduating from USC film school, Jeff Toye worked as a producer and second-unit director for Catherine Hardwicke, and as a writer and creative director at Kobe Bryant’s Granity Studios. THE OPENER is his first feature film. 

Director's Filmography:
Filmography:

2018 DETAIL (TV)
2012 THE CHEMIST (SHORT)
2011 L & R (SHORT)