“Only Murders in the Building”: An Untraditional Series Marked By Massive Success

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Elizabeth Ippolito

Created By: Steve Martin and John Hoffman

Starring: Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez

Rating: 4/5

It is very rare for audiences to see a comedic mystery on television. “Only Murders in the Building” perfectly executed this genre mix in a way viewers have never seen before. The show follows three strangers, Oliver Putnam a failed Broadway executive, Charles-Haden Savage a retired actor, and Mabel Mora who all live in the Upper West Side of Manhattan. When a murder occurs in their building, they are drawn in to solve it together while recording a true crime podcast to report their findings. 

Season one follows the murder of Tim Konos framed as a suicide and the three podcasters’ journey in solving the murder. Season two begins at the very beginning of season one where Charles, Mabel, and Oliver are framed for the murder of the building manager, Bunny. The three must prove their innocence and save the building from a murderer that is on the loose. 

“Only Murders in the Building” is what television has been missing. While it is incredibly hilarious through the dynamic of Charles and Oliver’s old age, their over-the-top personalities with Mabel’s hip lifestyle, fans can count on “Only Murders in the Building” for a laugh. For the mystery aspect, this series hits the target. Writers keep fans on the edge of their seats the entire season making the series perfect for binge-watching.

Fans received the show very well. With its whodunit feel, fans are included in a tight-knit community working alongside Charles, Oliver, and Mabel on their theories of who the killer is. This aspect brings the series more success because it’s more interactive than other shows. 

The series does an impeccable job highlighting the gorgeous unknown spots of the city including The United Palace Theater in Washington Heights which will be included in a lot of season three. It has incredible cinematography and well-placed use of flashbacks to highlight important aspects of each murder.

I never thought there would be a day when I would see Steve Martin, Selena Gomez, and Martin Short on screen together and surprisingly it’s everything television has been missing. Their character dynamics and talents are undeniable which works in part of the appeal to the series.

Executive producer, Kristin Bernstein, spoke on season three, “It’s going to be a lot of fun, and fans are going to see something entirely new”. It is very exciting to hear that Paul Rudd will be joining the cast for season three. The season will take place in a theater community where there is lots of room for comedy and the beauty of the United Palace Theater. The new season will return Summer of 2023 and fans cannot wait to see where the series goes next.

“Only Murders in the Building” is a show for everyone of all ages and interests. With two successful seasons under its belt and another on the way, it’s the perfect time to jump into the successful series and be a part of the fun!