Ever since its debut on Hulu in 2021, ‘Only Murders in the Building’ has consistently received Emmy nominations yet has generally been overlooked. Despite its lineup of nominations for the 2024 Emmys to be presented later in September, it was notably absent from the Comedy Series Writing nominations. This oversight seems peculiar, given how co-creators Steve Martin and John Hoffman have brilliantly sculpted a comedy mystery series balancing robust humor and intriguing whodunits that keep audience pleasantly surprised.
Achieving either humor or mystery in a show is commendable, but the harmonious blend of both elements in ‘Only Murders In the Building’ undoubtedly makes the show worthy of an Emmy. That’s not to say the show hasn’t had its share of accolades or attention. The series has accumulated four Emmys to date, albeit only one for acting awarded to guest star Nathan Lane in 2022.
Year after year, the show exceeds expectations by showcasing its recurrent and guest actors in innovative ways. For the first time, all three main characters have been nominated this year, reflecting well-earned praise. Martin delivers a compelling performance as ex-TV detective Charles-Haden Savage, while Martin Short exudes both a charming arrogance and crushing insecurity as former Broadway director Oliver Putnam. Their inconsistent yet delightfully amusing chemistry adds to the appeal of the show.
The role of the mystery podcast enthusiast, Mabel Mora, portrayed by Selena Gomez, brings an additional layer of charm to the series. Mabel is as subdued and sarcastic as Oliver’s character is effervescent and exaggerated. The unique combination of their diverse personalities, fraught with ego, insecurity yet laced with humor, forms the crux of the series.
The latest season of ‘Only Murders in the Building’ transports this unlikely trio to fresh surroundings, albeit temporarily. Thanks to their successful crime-solving stints in previous seasons, they are invited to Hollywood by a movie mogul, aiming to acquire their life rights to frame a film around their adventures.
The character of the movie mogul is played by the former ‘Saturday Night Live’ star, Molly Shannon, who hosts a lavish party to welcome the trio. During the party, she attempts to impress them by introducing the actors chosen to portray them on the big screen.
Once the project gets the green light, the trio, Charles, Oliver, and Mabel, return to their familiar New York apartment complex. But, they uncover a bullet hole in Charles’ apartment window, sparking off suspicions that he could have been the intended murder victim on their return.
The trio also begin to suspect that the sniper was possibly located in one of the apartments facing their courtyard. Charles scrutinizes the activities of the residents in the west tower before summoning his podcasting counterparts to talk over his suspicions.
At this juncture, ‘Only Murders’ transforms into the comedic equivalent of the film ‘Rear Window’. Much akin to James Stewart in the renowned Hitchcock movie, our protagonists suspect malevolence brewing across the courtyard. However, their distinct and humorous personality traits become all the more prominent in the process of their inquisitive pursuits.
The dual plots of Season 4 – the film project and a new murder mystery – accommodate a bevy of guest stars, all making equally valuable contributions. Almost all actors from ‘Only Murders’ nominated for Emmys this year, in different supporting categories, have made a return. This includes stalwarts like Da’Vine Joy Randolph, Paul Rudd, and Meryl Streep.
We also see the addition of Jane Lynch, Melissa McCarthy, Scott Bakula, and Richard Kind. These formidable talents contribute to making the viewing experience utterly delightful. Streep and Rudd especially have been exceptional, their uninhibited and outstanding performances make them feel like a part of the core cast.
The caliber of the show’s writing is supremely in sync with the high standards set by Streep and Rudd, matched equally well by the main protagonists of the show. Whether these scenes involve emotional intimacy or depict shared experiences of joy or sorrow with Short, they resonate profoundly.
In the current season, ‘Only Murders in the Building’, gains a substantial influx of talent. Yet, the spotlight never drifts far from the stars of the series despite the powerful performances from new and returning actors.
Ultimately, the allure of the series is maintained through the reciprocation and collaboration of all the stars. The newcomers don’t overshadow, but rather illuminate the stage alongside the original actors, crafting a truly entertaining watch.