Only Murders in the Building is a stylish and surprisingly heartfelt mystery-comedy that blends classic whodunit storytelling with modern wit. Created by Steve Martin and John Hoffman, the series follows three strangers in a New York City apartment building who bond over their shared love of true crime podcasts—only to find themselves investigating a suspicious death in their own building.
The show’s greatest strength is its chemistry. Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez form an unlikely but deeply entertaining trio. Martin and Short bring seasoned comedic timing, while Gomez provides a grounded, understated counterbalance. Their generational differences fuel much of the humor, but the series also gives each character emotional depth beyond the punchlines.
The writing is sharp and self-aware, poking fun at the true crime obsession while still delivering an engaging mystery. It manages to maintain suspense without taking itself too seriously, striking a balance that keeps the tone light even when exploring darker themes. Each season unfolds with carefully placed clues and red herrings, rewarding attentive viewers.
Visually, the show has a polished, cozy aesthetic that makes its New York setting feel both grand and intimate. The pacing is steady, though some episodes lean more heavily into character moments than plot advancement, which may not appeal to viewers seeking constant twists.
Overall, Only Murders in the Building is a charming and cleverly constructed series. It offers humor, intrigue, and warmth in equal measure, making it a refreshing entry in the mystery genre—especially for viewers who enjoy character-driven storytelling as much as solving the puzzle.
