Only Murders in the Building – Season 3 Review

Published July 27, 2023

Movie Details

Rating
A
Director
John Hoffman, Adam Shankman, Chris Koch, Cherien Dabis
Writer
John Hoffman, Sas Goldberg, Ben Smith, Joshua Allen Griffith, Matteo Borghese, Rob Turbovsky, JJ Philbin, Tess Morris, Noah Levine, Madeleine George, Ben Philippe, Jake Schnesel, Pete Swanson, Siena Streiber
Actors
Steve Martin, Martin Short, Selena Gomez, Paul Rudd, Meryl Streep
Runtime
Release Date
August 8, 2023
Genres
Comedy
Certification

Season three finds Charles, Oliver & Mabel investigating a murder behind the scenes of a Broadway show. Ben Glenroy is a Hollywood action star whose Broadway debut is cut short by his untimely death. Aided by co-star Loretta Durkin, our trio embarks on their toughest case yet, all while director Oliver desperately attempts to put his show back together. Curtains up!

In the third installment of the thrilling mystery-comedy series, Only Murders in the Building, creators Steve Martin, Dan Fogelman, and John Hoffman once again prove their mastery of storytelling. Returning with a bang, the show continues to captivate audiences with its unique blend of humor, suspense, and lovable characters. Season three takes us deeper into the tangled webs of intrigue, secrets, and podcasters-turned-detectives, raising the stakes and delivering a rollercoaster ride of emotions. As fans eagerly awaited its arrival, the question on everyone’s mind was whether the latest chapter could maintain the brilliance of its predecessors. Rest assured, Only Murders in the Building‘s third outing not only lives up to expectations but surpasses them with a gripping narrative that will leave you gasping for breath.

Season three picks up immediately after the cliffhanger finale of the previous season, propelling us into a convoluted murder investigation. The narrative doesn’t waste any time, diving straight into the heart of the action, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats throughout the entire season. The pacing is impeccable, deftly balancing character development, plot progression, and moments of levity.

The scriptwriting continues to be a highlight, with sharp dialogue, witty banter, and well-timed comedic beats that leave you chuckling amidst the nail-biting suspense. The show adeptly juggles multiple subplots, each intertwining seamlessly with the central mystery, creating a tapestry of interconnected narratives that enrich the overall experience.

As with previous seasons, the show’s strength lies in its well-rounded and endearing characters. Charles (Steve Martin), Oliver (Martin Short), and Mabel (Selena Gomez) remain the heart and soul of the series. While staying true to their core personas, they are also given room to evolve, delving deeper into their personal histories and emotional vulnerabilities. Viewers are granted a deeper understanding of their motivations and desires, further strengthening the bond between the characters and the audience. Paul Rudd and Meryl Streep are also welcomed new additions to the season, but namely Rudd, who feels just as charismatic and witty as ever.

New supporting characters are introduced, each bringing a unique flavor to the story. The ensemble cast continues to shine, with exceptional performances by guest stars who add intrigue and complexity to the narrative. One standout addition is a charismatic but enigmatic figure whose presence adds an extra layer of intrigue, leaving fans guessing until the very end.

The core of Only Murders in the Building remains its engrossing mysteries, and season three is no exception. The central whodunit is meticulously crafted, riddled with red herrings and unexpected turns that keep viewers guessing until the final reveal. The writers skillfully plant seeds of doubt and suspicion, making it nearly impossible to predict the culprit.

The show continues to challenge traditional detective tropes, cleverly subverting expectations and introducing unconventional twists that keep the narrative fresh and surprising. It avoids clichés and embraces ambiguity, resulting in a more realistic and engaging portrayal of investigative work. Audiences will find themselves engaged in a delightful game of cat-and-mouse, trying to piece together the puzzle alongside the characters.

As expected, Only Murders in the Building maintains its high production values, delivering a visually striking and immersive experience. From the intricately designed sets to the attention to detail in costumes and props, the show successfully captures the essence of its New York City setting.

The cinematography remains top-notch, creatively employing various angles and camera techniques to heighten suspense or comedic moments. The use of lighting and shadows contributes to the show’s atmospheric quality, enhancing the mystery’s ambiance.

Beyond its entertainment value, Only Murders in the Building delves into more profound themes, such as friendship, redemption, and the intricacies of human relationships. The show explores the emotional scars of the main characters, offering a raw and heartfelt portrayal of their personal struggles. As they confront their past traumas, the characters undergo significant growth, making their journey even more rewarding to witness.

Only Murders in the Building‘s third season surpasses expectations, maintaining the show’s winning formula while pushing the boundaries of its storytelling. The seamless blend of humor, suspense, and captivating characters makes it a must-watch for fans of mystery and comedy alike. With its clever plot twists, stellar performances, and emotional depth, the series proves once again why it’s a standout in the crowded landscape of television. Only Murders in the Building continues to be a masterclass in crafting an addictive mystery, leaving viewers eagerly awaiting its next installment.