Ah, “Only Murders in the Building”! Since it burst onto the scene in 2021, this delightful show has gained popularity among fans for having a peculiar combination of comedy, mystery, and a little bit of obsession with real crime. And guess what, season 3 does not disappoint you.
Premise of the Series
Only Murders in the Building is a lovely comedy mystery series about three true crime podcast enthusiasts – Charles, Oliver, and Mabel – who get trapped in a real-life murder case happening within their apartment in Arconia located on the Upper West Side.
This Show which was produced by Steve Martin and John Hoffman has gained high fame since its premièred back in 2021 because of its witty scripts, likable characters, and good mix of humor with tension.
Show Fresh Setting
This time around, our favorite unlikely trio – Charles, Oliver, and Mabel – trade their Upper West Side digs for the bright lights of Broadway. The Arconia may be behind them, but a new mystery awaits the death of an actor on the opening night of a play aptly titled “Death Rattle.” Talk about setting the stage for a dramatic whodunit!
What elevates Season 3 is how it seamlessly weaves this fresh setting into the show’s existing charm. It’s like the writers took us backstage at a Broadway production, giving us a glimpse of the drama, the egos, and the sheer passion that fuels the theater world. They poke fun at it, sure, but it’s all done with a wink and a smile, a clear love for this larger-than-life artistic realm.
Maintaining Comedic Roots
But the show doesn’t neglect its comedic roots. The writing remains sharp and witty, delivering laugh-out-loud moments at every turn. Whether it’s Charles, played by the ever-hilarious Steve Martin, struggling to sing and dance for a role (bless his heart!), or Martin Short, as Oliver, grappling with the stress of a disastrous opening night and an ever-present health scare, you’ll find yourself grinning from ear to ear.
The Dynamic Between the Leads
Speaking of characters, the show thrives on the dynamic between its three leads. Martin and Short, with their long history of comedic collaboration, are a force of nature. They bounce off each other effortlessly, their comedic timing and improvisation creating an undeniable camaraderie. Their friendship translates beautifully to the screen, making us believe in their sometimes bumbling, yet endearing characters. This combination allows for moments of genuine emotion amidst the humor, making the characters’ relationships feel authentic. Criticisms and Areas for Improvement
Selena Gomez’s Contribution
Selena Gomez, as Mabel, brings a youthful energy and a dash of drama to the mix. Her background as a pop star adds a unique layer to her portrayal, creating a delightful contrast with the more traditional comedic stylings of Martin and Short. Together, they are a force to be reckoned with, their strengths complementing each other to create a rich and engaging team.
Exploring Personal Lives
And the best part? The show doesn’t just focus on the mystery. It takes the time to delve into the personal lives of Charles, Oliver, and Mabel. Charles faces challenges in his love life with his girlfriend Joy moving in. Oliver wrestles with mortality and the fate of his show. Mabel gets tangled up with a complicated past relationship while exploring a budding romance. These personal journeys allow us to connect with the characters on a deeper level, making their growth and relationships feel authentic and relatable.
Minor Criticisms
Now, a no-show is perfect. Some viewers might find the Broadway setting a bit too niche, with some jokes landing more for theater enthusiasts. There’s also a slight imbalance in screen time between the characters, with Oliver’s storyline occasionally overshadowing those of Charles and Mabel.
Overall Impression
But these are minor quibbles in the grand scheme of things. Overall, Season 3 of “Only Murders in the Building” is a triumph. It’s another captivating mystery with a fresh twist, layered with humor and heartfelt character development. The performances are stellar, the writing is sharp, and the blend of humor and suspense keeps you glued to the screen.
Whether you’re a fan of comedy or mystery, or simply love a well-written show with endearing characters, “Only Murders in the Building” Season 3 is a must-watch. It’s a delightfully funny and surprisingly moving experience that solidifies the show’s place as one of the best on television today. So grab your popcorn, settle in, and get ready to be entertained!
