Only Murders In The Building: A Hilarious True Crime Comedy

Hey guys, have you heard of the absolute gem of a show called Only Murders in the Building? If you haven't, you're seriously missing out! This show is a brilliant blend of true crime obsession, witty comedy, and a whole lot of heart. It's the kind of show that you can easily binge-watch in a weekend, and you'll probably find yourself recommending it to everyone you know. I'm going to walk you through why this show is so fantastic. It's not just a show; it's an experience. We're talking about a true crime comedy that cleverly satirizes the true crime genre while delivering an engaging murder mystery. Let's get into the nitty-gritty of why this show has captured the hearts of so many viewers. This article will break down what makes Only Murders in the Building so special, from its amazing cast to its clever writing and addictive storylines. So, buckle up, because we're about to dive deep into the world of the Arconia and the hilarious murder investigations of Mabel, Oliver, and Charles. The show's appeal lies in its ability to simultaneously poke fun at the true crime genre while also embracing its core elements. It's a balancing act that the show pulls off masterfully, thanks to its clever writing, well-developed characters, and a healthy dose of humor. The show's premise is a clever parody of the true crime podcast craze, with our unlikely trio starting their own podcast to document their investigation. This meta-narrative allows the show to comment on the genre's tropes and conventions while still delivering a genuinely engaging mystery. And let's not forget the incredible chemistry between the main actors. Their interactions are a constant source of laughter and warmth, making you root for them every step of the way. So, if you're looking for a show that will make you laugh, think, and maybe even shed a tear or two, Only Murders in the Building is definitely worth checking out.

The Premise: Unlikely Detectives and a Murder Mystery

Alright, let's get down to the basics. The show's central premise revolves around three strangers – Charles-Haden Savage (played by Steve Martin), Oliver Putnam (played by Martin Short), and Mabel Mora (played by Selena Gomez) – who live in the same swanky Upper West Side apartment building in New York City, called the Arconia. These three have a shared passion for true crime, so they find themselves drawn together when a fellow resident is found dead. It quickly becomes clear that the death is no accident, and they suspect murder. Instead of just calling the cops and letting them do their job, they decide to do their own investigation, and they start a true-crime podcast to document their findings. The idea is brilliant because it sets the stage for a lot of comedy, suspense, and character development. The show's writing is especially good at creating a unique atmosphere. The show uses the podcast format to build suspense, providing listeners with a glimpse into the characters' inner thoughts and feelings as they delve deeper into the mystery. The use of flashbacks, which provide information about the characters' pasts, adds an extra layer of complexity to the plot. The podcast format also allows the show to deliver crucial information about the investigation in an engaging way. This clever use of storytelling keeps the audience hooked and makes it easy to follow the complex plot twists. Each episode reveals a new clue, a new suspect, and a new layer of complexity to the mystery. As they dig deeper, they uncover secrets about the victim and the other residents of the Arconia. The investigation is filled with humorous moments as the three protagonists navigate their own personal issues and try to work together, despite their differences. The show is known for its clever writing, quick-witted dialogue, and excellent performances by the main cast. The show's success comes from its ability to balance comedy and drama. The characters have a great dynamic, and their interactions are always entertaining. The way they interact with each other and the world around them is both funny and relatable, making it easy for the audience to connect with them.

The Characters: A Trio of Charm and Quirks

Let's talk about the heart of the show: the characters. Only Murders in the Building wouldn't be the success it is without its amazing cast and the unique personalities they bring to their roles. The show's main trio, played by Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez, is a masterclass in comedic timing and character development. Their chemistry is pure gold. We have Charles-Haden Savage, played by Steve Martin, who is a former actor who starred in a popular detective show. Then there's Oliver Putnam, played by Martin Short, a struggling theater director with a flair for the dramatic. Finally, there's Mabel Mora, played by Selena Gomez, a young artist renovating her aunt's apartment in the building. Each character brings something unique to the table, and their interactions are the source of much of the show's humor and charm. Charles is the straight man of the group, providing a grounded perspective and a dose of dry wit. Oliver is the flamboyant, eccentric director, whose over-the-top personality often leads to hilarious situations. Mabel is the cool and collected one, bringing a millennial sensibility and a sharp eye for detail. The brilliance of the show lies in how well these three diverse characters complement each other. Their different backgrounds and personalities lead to friction and conflict, but also to unexpected moments of understanding and empathy. As they investigate the murders, they learn to rely on each other, forming a strong bond that goes beyond their initial shared interest in true crime. Each character has their own personal struggles and secrets, which are gradually revealed throughout the series. These personal stories add depth to the characters and make them more relatable and endearing. The show's writers have done an excellent job of creating characters that are both flawed and lovable, making the audience care about them and root for their success. The relationships between the characters evolve throughout the series, with each episode revealing new dimensions to their friendships and personal lives. The audience gets to know the characters on a more intimate level, and the show's charm lies in its ability to make you care about their problems, their triumphs, and their relationships.

The Humor: A Blend of Wit and Slapstick

One of the biggest reasons Only Murders in the Building is so successful is the humor. The show's comedy is a sophisticated blend of wit, slapstick, and observational humor. The writing is sharp, with clever dialogue and plenty of running gags that will keep you laughing out loud. The jokes are smart, and the comedic timing of the actors is impeccable. It's a show that knows how to make you laugh without resorting to cheap gags or predictable punchlines. The show's humor is integrated into the plot, making the investigation even more entertaining. The characters often find themselves in absurd situations, which allows for hilarious moments. Their attempts to solve the crimes are often hampered by their own quirks and personal issues, leading to comical mishaps and misunderstandings. The show doesn't shy away from self-deprecating humor. The characters often make fun of themselves and each other, which adds to the show's charm. The humor in Only Murders in the Building isn't just about making you laugh; it also serves to comment on the true crime genre and its obsession with violence and sensationalism. The show pokes fun at the genre's tropes and clichés while still delivering a genuinely engaging mystery. The show also makes use of slapstick humor, which is used to great effect. The physical comedy adds to the show's overall appeal. The show balances the slapstick humor with the more sophisticated wit. This combination makes the show entertaining for a broad audience. The show's writers are masters of comedic timing, knowing how to deliver a joke for maximum impact. The show's humor is a key ingredient in its success, making it a truly enjoyable viewing experience. It's the kind of show you can watch again and again, and you'll always find something new to laugh at. Overall, the show's clever blend of humor elevates the viewing experience and makes it a delightful show to watch.

The Mystery: Twists, Turns, and Red Herrings

Now, let's talk about the mystery itself. Only Murders in the Building is a true crime comedy, so the murder mystery is at the core of the show. The mysteries are well-crafted, with plenty of twists, turns, and red herrings to keep you guessing. The show does a great job of creating suspense. Each episode reveals new clues and secrets, and the audience is constantly trying to piece together the puzzle. The show keeps you engaged with its suspenseful storytelling and intricate plot twists. The show uses the podcast format to build suspense, providing listeners with a glimpse into the characters' inner thoughts and feelings as they delve deeper into the mystery. The format allows the audience to feel like they are part of the investigation. The show's writers do an excellent job of weaving together multiple plot threads, making the mystery even more intriguing. The characters' individual storylines are often intertwined with the main mystery, adding depth and complexity to the plot. The show also introduces new suspects and potential clues in each episode. This keeps the audience engaged and guessing about who could be the killer. The show doesn't give away all the answers right away. The audience has to carefully watch each episode to uncover the clues. The show's commitment to suspense is a major factor in its success. The show offers an engaging experience, and the intricate plots keep the viewers hooked. The suspense builds throughout the season, leading up to a satisfying conclusion. This keeps the audience engaged and makes them want to watch the next episode. The show also cleverly uses red herrings, leading the audience down the wrong path. The red herrings add to the mystery and keep the audience guessing about the true killer. The red herrings are so cleverly placed that the audience must watch carefully to discover the real clues. The show ensures that the mystery remains engaging and provides the audience with a satisfying experience. Overall, the murder mystery in Only Murders in the Building is a masterpiece of storytelling. It will keep you guessing until the very end.

The Setting: The Iconic Arconia Building

The Arconia is more than just a setting; it is a character in its own right. The opulent apartment building on the Upper West Side serves as the backdrop for all the action, and its residents and secrets are central to the story. The show makes the Arconia a character. The building's history, architecture, and eccentric residents are essential elements of the story. The Arconia's design is beautiful and adds a luxurious feel. The show makes great use of the building's layout, providing a sense of community and the intrigue of secrets behind closed doors. The Arconia's interior design is a mix of old-world charm and modern sophistication, which adds to the setting's charm. The building's history is slowly revealed throughout the series, adding depth to the plot and providing clues to the murders. The building's residents are all unique characters, and their interactions are a source of humor and drama. The building itself is full of secrets, and as the trio investigates, they uncover long-held hidden events. The show's writers have done an amazing job of creating a sense of place. The building feels like a real place with its history and its community. The show uses the Arconia to provide clues to the mysteries. The audience can connect with the setting and fully immerse themselves in the world of the show. The Arconia's setting plays a crucial role in creating the show's unique atmosphere and adding to the overall charm. It's a perfect example of how a setting can be so much more than just a background; it is an active participant in the story. The Arconia provides the audience with a unique and unforgettable viewing experience.

Why You Should Watch It

Only Murders in the Building is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys a good mystery, a hearty laugh, and a dash of heart. The show has a brilliant cast, smart writing, and an engaging storyline. It's a show that will keep you entertained from start to finish. It's perfect for those who enjoy true crime podcasts. The show is also a great choice for those who want a lighthearted and fun viewing experience. The show's unique blend of humor and mystery is what makes it so special. The characters are well-developed and easy to root for, and their interactions are a constant source of laughter. The show is available on Hulu, so you can easily stream it whenever you want. The show's popularity has led to multiple seasons, so you can enjoy many hours of entertainment. This is a show that will keep you coming back for more. So, gather your friends, grab some snacks, and get ready to dive into the world of Only Murders in the Building. You will not be disappointed!