Only Murders in the Building (2024)

A Hilarious Whodunit with Heart

“Only Murders in the Building” (2024) continues to charm audiences with its unique blend of comedy, mystery, and heartfelt moments. The series follows three unlikely friends—Charles (Steve Martin), Oliver (Martin Short), and Mabel (Selena Gomez)—who share an obsession with true crime podcasts. When a murder occurs in their upscale Upper West Side apartment building, the trio decides to investigate, using their knowledge of crime stories to uncover the truth while navigating their own personal dramas.

Created by John Hoffman and Steve Martin, the show has garnered critical acclaim for its clever writing and engaging performances. The fourth season premiered on January 2, 2024, on ABC, bringing back the beloved characters and introducing new guest stars, including Eva Longoria and Zach Galifianakis, who add fresh dynamics to the storyline.

Steve Martin and Martin Short deliver standout performances, showcasing their comedic timing and chemistry as they bicker and bond over their shared mission. Selena Gomez shines as Mabel, bringing a youthful energy and depth to the group. The interplay between the three leads is both humorous and touching, making their friendship a central theme of the series.

Visually, “Only Murders in the Building” captures the charm of New York City, with cinematography that highlights the vibrant atmosphere of the city and the intricacies of the apartment building where the story unfolds. The production design is meticulous, creating a cozy yet mysterious environment that enhances the narrative.

Thematically, the series explores friendship, the impact of trauma, and the quest for justice, all wrapped in a comedic package. Critics have praised the show for its ability to balance humor with poignant moments, making it relatable and engaging. The fourth season promises to delve deeper into the characters’ backstories while maintaining the lighthearted tone that fans have come to love.

Positive Reviews

1. Tribute to War Journalism: The film is praised for its focus on war journalism, depicting the practicalities and horrors of a modern-day American civil war without delving deeply into the politics behind the conflict 1. This approach has been noted as a tribute to the role of journalists in war zones 2.
2. Riveting and Haunting: Early audience reactions have been overwhelmingly positive, with many describing the film as riveting and haunting 3. Critics have echoed this sentiment, highlighting the film’s ability to leave viewers horrified by the monstrosities of war 4.
3. Stunning Final Act: The final 20 minutes of the film have been particularly lauded, with some reviewers stating that this segment alone is worth the price of admission 5. The sequence featuring Jesse Plemons has been singled out for its lasting impact 6.
4. Thought-Provoking: The film is seen as a powerful, thought-provoking piece that challenges viewers to reflect on the nature of violence and the role of journalism in conflict 7. It is described as a cautionary tale that feels timely and urgent 89.
5. Artful and Meditative: Rather than glorifying war, “Civil War” is noted for its artful and meditative approach, making the violence feel unglamorous and exhausting 10. This perspective is intended to provoke thought rather than provide catharsis 11.

Mixed Reviews

1. Character Piece: Some critics have pointed out that the film is more of a character piece than an all-out war movie, focusing on the experiences of journalists rather than the broader conflict 1213. This has been seen as both a strength and a limitation, depending on the viewer’s expectations.
2. Ambiguity and Lack of Backstory: The film’s ambiguity and lack of detailed backstory have been noted. While some appreciate that it doesn’t spoonfeed the audience 14, others feel that the lack of context makes it difficult to fully engage with the story 1516.
3. Pacing Issues: The pacing of the film has been criticized, with some reviewers noting that the first half drags, leading to a confusing narrative flow 1718. However, the intense final act is often cited as redeeming these earlier shortcomings 19.

Negative Reviews

1. Poor Execution: Many audience members have been highly critical of the film, describing it as a waste of time with poor scripting and character development 20. The lack of a compelling storyline and substance has been a common complaint 21.
2. Chaotic and Pointless: Some viewers found the film chaotic and ultimately pointless, with poorly written characters and unconvincing combat scenes 22. The superficial treatment of the conflict has led to frustration among some audience members 23.
3. Insufferable Experience: A significant number of reviews have labeled the film as insufferable, with some viewers even falling asleep during the screening 24. The film’s atmosphere and music have also been criticized for being annoying and out of place 2526.

User Ratings:
As of now, “Only Murders in the Building” holds a user rating of 8.3/10 on IMDb and a 95% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, indicating a strong positive reception from viewers.

Overall Impression:
“Only Murders in the Building” continues to impress with its witty writing, strong performances, and engaging mystery. The chemistry between the leads, combined with clever plot twists and humor, makes it a standout series in the comedy-mystery genre. The fourth season is poised to deliver more laughs and intrigue, solidifying its place as a must-watch for fans of both comedy and crime dramas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is “Only Murders in the Building” (2024) about?

“Only Murders in the Building” follows three residents of an upscale New York City apartment building who become amateur detectives after a murder occurs in their building, using their love of true crime to solve the mystery.

Who created “Only Murders in the Building”?

The series was created by John Hoffman and Steve Martin, who also star in the show.

Is “Only Murders in the Building” based on a true story?

No, “Only Murders in the Building” is a fictional narrative that draws inspiration from the true crime genre but is not based on real events.

Where can I watch “Only Murders in the Building”?

The series is available for streaming on Hulu and airs on ABC, with the fourth season premiering on January 2, 2024.

What are critics saying about “Only Murders in the Building”?

Critics have praised the series for its clever writing, strong performances, and ability to blend humor with heartfelt moments, making it a favorite among audiences.

For more detailed information about “Only Murders in the Building,” you can visit Wikipedia.

In conclusion, “Only Murders in the Building” remains a delightful mix of comedy and mystery, captivating viewers with its engaging characters and clever storytelling. It’s a must-watch for anyone who enjoys a good whodunit with a side of humor.