Only Murders in the Building (TV Series) Opening Night (2023) User Reviews

Terrific Theatricality - Season 3 Review

[JoshuaMercott · 9/10 · 10 October 2023]

Criminally comical writing meets a near-perfect murder-mystery in season 3 of "Only Murders In The Building". This season had a nice 10-episode count sprinkled with all the classic tropes the show has been consistently delivering so far.

Steve Martin continued to impress as Charles-Haden Savage. I have always loved his comedic timing, and he hasn't dulled one bit. He was indulging a risky romance with Joy Payne (played by Andrea Martin), who was quite the red herring for a while. Also, Martin's 'patter song' sequence in the "Sitzprobe" episode was *chef's kiss*.

Martin Short as Oliver Putnam was 'larger than life' hilarious, especially with those crazy comebacks and grand entrances. He had a rich variety of moments and memories this season, and made for an interesting combo with Meryl Streep (more on this in a bit).

Both men had more personal challenges and demons to face this time, which clearly showed that "Only Murders In The Building" was properly branching out its characters' arcs.

Selena Gomez as Mabel Mora was equal parts empathic and engaging. She brought more heart to her role this season. Since her character's aunt sold the apartment where Mabel was temporarily staying, she was looking at spending just four weeks with Oliver and Charles before moving out. This added some nice heart-tugging elements to the show.

Paul Rudd as Ben Glenroy was a captivating, and quite obnoxious, addition. He was his own usual self and enriched the plot, especially during his character's deathly absence. Which was brief, because surprise, he was back! His scenes after being revived continued to captivate. And, just when you thought the trio's typical podcast couldn't take place, Ben soon ended up giving them every reason to go right ahead.

Now, as a huge fan of Meryl Streep, I was enormously delighted to see her take on the curious, suspicious, cutesy, and unpredictable role of Loretta Durkin. She was the soul of this script in so many ways.

From her nuanced performance to her musical notes, and not to forget her sweet romantic portions with Oliver, she was a genuine treat to see in "Only Murders In The Building" season 3. She had to pretend to be bad - at singing and acting - yet not too bad, and that's not easy to do.

Also, it was nice to see her do this project along with Steve Martin. They were great together in the 2009 rom-com "It's Complicated".

Meryl is still the sharpest blade in any box. Her acting carried season 3 in many ways. Her every scene was (as always) a lesson in acting and a testament to her skill as an actress.

This time round, in season 3, the intrepid and unusual podcasting trio - Charles, Oliver, and Mabel - had a complex crime on their hands. A big Broadway star (Ben Glenroy) fell dead on stage, creating quite a mystery and a mess.

Enter, Loretta Durkin. A wonderful contrast to the actress playing her, Loretta was ironically only reasonably good at acting. Her character's life was rife with rejections and broken dreams. Then along came Oliver's play, which gave her renewed hope and a second chance.

One clever twist after the next led to a full-blown murder mystery - 'in the building', as it were. They also included some nice comebacks and cameos (Mel Brooks and Matthew Broderick).

The plot beautifully captured - or rather, re-captured - that classic whodunnit flair. It was genuinely hard to predict who committed the murder, and even then some clever red herrings swam by, successfully casting doubt.

I honestly did not see that mother-son twist - rather, double-twist - coming, nor was I able to figure out in advance exactly who did the deed.

Every artist brought their A-game to this season, and it showed. It was a flawless take on a murder-mystery, with a theatric twist to make the whole thing entertaining. I guess in this regard, "Only Murders In The Building" casually played with dark humor in almost ingenious ways.

This is, 'cookies' down, the best season so far. And that jaw-dropping final shot! What in the Charles-Haden Savage just happened, and when the fishsticks is season 4 coming around?!

Season Three Review

[southdavid · 8/10 · 7 October 2023]

Having caught up with "Only Murders in the Building" in the last few months, this was the first season of the show that I actually watched as it aired. Whilst not perhaps quite as funny as the previous couple, a meta twinge and some serious guest stars make this another great run.

On the opening night of Oliver's (Martin Short) new play "Death Rattle" it's star, Ben Glenroy (Paul Rudd) collapses on stage. However, only clinically dead a revived Glenroy then arrives at the after party only to be actually murdered, pushed down a lift shaft in the Arconia. The trio spy the opportunity to produce another season of the podcast, but Oliver is both attracted to his leading lady, Loretta (Meryl Streep) and looking to pivot the play to a musical. Charles (Steve Martin) is settling into his life with Joy (Andrea Martin) and Mabel (Selena Gomez) is worried that her life isn't progressing as she'd hoped and that her time at the building is coming to an end.

Two huge guest stars in this season. Meryl Streep features heavily across the run and, though I suspected that Paul Rudd might only appear in the first episode, for obvious reasons, he does actually appear multiple times in flashback across the whole run too. Both are massive additions to the show, and it will be interesting to see if Streep particularly is happy to return for the fourth season. The producing a play aspect of the plot allows for cameos from Matthew Broderick and Mel Brooks. Jeremy Shamos and Jesse Williams are regular TV faces that appear in this run, and the rest of the case are rounded out with various talented stars.

Maybe though this season wasn't quite as funny as the previous ones, though I would say that there were still some amusing moments in each episode. I would say the case was again one of the stronger elements, with misdirections and reveals aplenty too, even if it's perhaps supplanted by the play production a little too often.

It's still really good, and I look forward to the next season after the dramatic finale to this one.

Great ending not really surprised about the killers

[gutmaniseliass · 9/10 · 5 October 2023]

The season endig ends on a bittersweet, but jaw dropping clifhanger with our fave Sazz Pataki, sadly gets the short end of the stick, as we think Charles went to get the wine, but then paw through the window he gets shot or thats what we think, then we see that Charles is safe, but than we get that Sazz Pataki dies and starts writting something from her blood. That was sad, but with the killler i really liked Donna even after she was reveal one of the killers, and i get her motive of protecting her sons first play from failing, so she reads the review and poisons Ben, but her motive is resonable she wants to see her sons first play like i said, before she dies of stage four lung cancer and the other killer, as you could posably get Cliff Donnas boy who pushed him down the elevator shaft. AND BRING BACK STREEP FOR SEASON 4 IF NOT I WILL FIGHT, LIKE DAMN LOOK FOR THE LIGHT JUST HITS DIFIRENT.

Overall for this season 8/10.

I Want to See the Musical

[Hitchcoc · 10/10 · 4 October 2023]

Things come to a fast conclusion--sort of. Mabel, it turns out, is incredibly perceptive, where the other two have been distracted. It all boils down to a poison cookie and a sad connection. As is usually the case, Martin Short is phenomenal. Kudos to Meryl Streep for her great respect for the story, and a stellar performance. Her singing is wonderful. Anyway, we are led through the twists and turns of another dynamic plot line. Some may guess the answer, but the whys and wherefores are nicely delineated. The musical itself, which is performed as things are coming to a boil, is great fun and worth the price of admission. I see there is going to be a fourth season. I can't wait.

Season Three: A fantastic continuation of a wonderful series

[alexanderelwood · 10/10 · 3 October 2023]

When I first watched season three, I considered it my least favorite of the series. I still immensely enjoyed it, I just thought it fell a tad short of the previous two. The more I let it sit, however, this latest batch of episodes has slowly crept its way up to become my new favorite thus far. The chemistry between Steve Martin, Martin Short and Selena Gomez remains irresistible as ever (despite sometimes getting sidetracked to make room for some new developments). Meryl Streep and Paul Rudd have proven to be some of the series' most riveting guest stars. Streep brings a sense of warmth and sincerity to her role, while also exhibiting some adept comedic timing and musical prowess. Rudd plays refreshingly against type, turning in a coarse, arrogant yet disarmingly layered performance. Matthew Broderick also delivers one of his funniest roles in years, playing a pedantic, fictionalized version of himself. There are one or two other characters I wished could have been given more of a spotlight, and the plot occasionally loses its concrete focus. With that said, the songs are wonderful, the writing continues to score a plethora of laughs, every cast member brings their A game, and the story amounts to a very solid payoff. Season three continues OMITB's incredible winning streak and has me very excited for what twists, turns and surprises lie ahead with the show.

DIVINE!

[caleblg · 10/10 · 3 October 2023]

Amazing! I need the actor who played Donna to win an Emmy, I enjoyed her performance so much. Mabel was so fun to follow along this episode. Everyone knocked it out the park this episode. The emotion, the anxiety, the fun... a blast! This season had some bumps for me but the finale really tied everything in a perfect bow. I don't see why some people wanted a huge twist crammed into this episode... it was satisfying and realistic. The last three episodes are just amazing ... 10s across the board! I hope the whole cast gets nominated for this season. This season was something different and I really believe it paid off. It feel like there is a season for everyone.

my favorite season so far!

[nerrdrage · 9/10 · 4 October 2023]

I guess many people think season 3 is the worst so far but it's my favorite, largely because of Meryl Streep and the insane songs they came up with.

The show works because of the cast's chemistry and charm. The weak point is the mysteries. For all the seasons, it's too easy to guess the killer even before there are any real clues. You just rule out: the main trio; the obvious red herrings; stunt casting like Sting; and anyone who's had too little screen time to be important. Then you're left with 1 or 2 options for the killer. A tad predictable, guys!

The cliffhanger for Season 4 is very intriguing! I hope we get flashbacks about the murdered person's backstory during the season.

Really amazing

[HellfireKing · 9/10 · 3 October 2023]

The twist still doesnt match up to the perfect S2 reveal which i did not expect at all Still pretty good with an emotional flair For 5 seconds at the end i was so tensed thinking charles had died I am relieved that it wasnt him. But that also got me thinking what if he had died? Or atleast gotten injured? Would have been interesting and very depressing s4 with the main character killed off. Or else he would be severely injured and returns halfway through or for s4 finale. Would have been very interesting but im always in for more steve martin.

And meryl streep is amazinnngggg Bring her back next season or i riot The worst few episodes in this season were the ones without her.

Season overall rating-9.3/10.

Season 4 here we come

[moviesfilmsreviewsinc · 9/10 · 4 October 2023]

Only Murders in the Building Season 3 Episode 10 concluded the latest murder mystery, revealing the circumstances surrounding Ben's death and Oliver's dream musical. The season finale tied together major plot points, resolved conflicts, and teased Season 4's murder mystery. Donna, the producer, showcased her greatest achievements as a producer, particularly Cliff, who was enamored with him when doctors placed him in her hands. She raised him in theatre and might have gotten too attached to him, but held his hand for too long, afraid to let him make mistakes. Her dedication to Cliff was admired, but also a cautionary tale about the dangers of too much love. The episode concluded with a twist that teased Season 4's murder mystery. The trio planned to confront Donna about their discovery for the podcast, but the meeting in the closet was anticlimactic. Donna didn't push back and admitted everything, which the trio expected. The scene lacked intrigue, but they rectified it later. Oliver finally got the opening night he wanted, despite the lead male actor's ineffectiveness. The musical was disappointing, as it was shown in snippets and didn't make much sense. The viewer should have seen everything to decide, but sometimes, it's not enough. The narrative of Only Murders in the Building Season 3 Episode 9 was not as interesting as it could have been due to the editing of scenes to enhance the actual scenes. Although the complete show was not shown, it made sense how it was done. Charles' song, "Which of the Triplets, Did It?", was not thrilling if he had genuinely nailed it. Donna's confession about pushing Ben down the elevator shaft seemed a stretch, as he was a younger man with more strength than Donna. Cliff's confession was more specific, showing the motive and means, which was the first indicator she might cover for her son. Mabel confronting Cliff about the elevator gave us satisfaction, but the lack of specific details in Donna's confession was the first indicator she might cover for her son. Ben, a notorious character, played a significant role in his own death. He was unable to leave people alone and had to push until he broke someone. He held onto the word "boy" triggered Cliff, which he held onto like a toddler. Ben didn't deserve to die, but his choices and consequences were significant. The show had some funny moments, including Oliver's snort when Loretta showed the blood-stained hankie. In retrospect, it was the best decision not to make him the lead, as he couldn't save his life. Mabel's ability to make uncomfortable situations funny was impressive. The season finale, "Opening Night," tied up everything and teasing the next mystery. Oliver received his play, Dickie met his mother, and Ben's killer was revealed.

Mixed Season

[hamadalsanadi · 6/10 · 7 October 2023]

While I still think the show is excellent. This season felt way different and for the wrong reasons. We had a lot of episodes where the story went nowhere and felt like some fillers. Most of the new characters are really annoying and quite dull. The fact that they have strayed away from "Murder in the Building" didn't work. One of the things I loved about the show was the interaction with neighbors and trying to figure out the secret of the building and the neighbors. I understand you can't do much after two seasons with the same ambiance, but that was not the way. The finale felt off and didn't deliver as you hoped. Both Season 1 & 2 had a grand finale. I would say the last moments of the episode were good. Hopefully, in season 4, they will go back to the root of the show with minor changes to the original formula.

Which of the theatre cast did it?

[dee-amannte · 10/10 · 4 October 2023]

This time around there were a little more clues or maybe a bit more obvious clues leading to the big reveal. If you watched the show really carefully, you realised the importance of mother-son relationship in the series. Dickie and Loretta, Cliff and Donna - two parallel stories, two stories of real motherly love. And let's not forget to mention that the main premise of the play, central to this season's story, was all about someone killing a mother of the triplets ... So motherhood and mother-son relationship was in did a big theme.

Acting was brilliant, storytelling had just the right pace (although I would've like not to know who the killer is 2 episodes before the end ...).

I really hope Loretta stays for the next season, because Merly Streep has proven once again that she's the best living actress. I'd love to see her do another season.

Tobert is also a potential reoccuring character ...

I have this a 10, because, well ... I love the chemistry between the three main characters, the plot had no holes, and Merly was an absolute star. Looking forward to season 4.

Lame predictable season end except the last scene

[harineem-209-525488 · 7/10 · 4 October 2023]

A season with mixed ratings comes to an end with this episode. This season had completely lost the murder plot halfway through then kind of picked itself towards the last 3 episodes with a bland murder plot and motive.

If Season 2 the murder plot and motive was like Spaghetti, this Season its like a one-liner, almost an afterthought.

The whole series was around a play which premieres in this episode and frankly the bits and pieces they show makes one question, who will pay to watch this boring mess with the weird costumes.

Yet I would rate this Season higher than Season 2 for the fabulous acting performances by the entire cast led by Martin Short and Meryl Streep.

I would really want to see less of the Tobart character next Season and a genuine murder plot not an afterthought.

Best opening night ever

[ladyliliroche · 9/10 · 6 November 2023]

I think this is their best season ever. Unfortunately, they did wrapped the new characters rather quickly with a "oh I have this thing now." And so I will miss you Meryl especially and of course Paul Rudd except if he miraculously comes back from the grave. Never say never I guess. There is always the twin plot line.

Also omg the musicals. THE MUSICSSSSS. They are perfection! Such melody, such thrilling lyrics. I love every bit of it. Glad they uploaded it as well for all of us to enjoy.

I do hope somehow they are able to make a one night only kind of broadway show for the musical and get all the casts together. It would be magical indeed.

Alright back to the murder plot. I think it was pretty obvious in the end on who have done it. The twist within the twist is like meh but the execution could be better. There were just some awkward moments put in just so the story can happen kind of thing.

But alas, I did enjoyed this season so much so cheers for another season.

Tied up nicely with more twists of course

[Rob-O-Cop · 9/10 · 4 October 2023]

Overall series 3 delivered really well on the high standard the show set with the previous 2 series.

I thought Martin Short and Steve Martin expanded on their already good performances adding depth and nuance to the characters, plus I think the show rose to the challenge of delivering something different in a show that is constrained by it's title and premise with the delve into musicals theatre. The script was written with a depth of knowledge that did the topic proud and it kept us interested and took it all beyond just a murder mystery.

There were jokes throughout which required a wide knowledge of topics or access to google, and the show didn't treat their audience like an 8 year old, except perhaps for the swearing is cool aspect of the dialog which I really didn't think added anything to the show, but it's a small quibble. I was watching with a ten year old and she enjoyed the whole show, but looked at me with a grimace at the swearing. It's a fair point.

The show rose to challenge again with the addition of some real star power, who also delivered at a high level. The musical numbers were actually top class and well delivered, and you could feel the cast giving it there everything to sell them.

That's the main thing about this show. You can see the effort and care going into it and as long as that's there I'll be along for the journey. Season 4 is a distinct possibility.

"For the Sake of a Child"

[rehana-s-kazi · 10/10 · 17 October 2023]

Great episode! Gave me chills. The musical and the "For the Sake of a Child" scene gave me chills.

They added so many new characters and famous stars this season I was a little worried in the beginning. Then there were so many relationship dynamics going on in the side plots. Luckily, I didn't get confused watching week to week.

I loved the characters and side stories this season. I'm so glad this episode was so good. I love musicals. I really enjoyed the finale.

I always hate ending on a cliffhanger though. I understand setting up for another season but I like my seasons packed up with a nice bow just in case if there wasn't another season.

A Killer Season Finale!

[nikitacpv · 10/10 · 16 October 2023]

I do have to agree with the majority of people who have given ''high ratings'' to the final 3 episodes, they were indeed the best.

What started of as unfortunately a weaker start of the third season, ended up going with a bang, and I must say I found this the best season finale so far!

I think for me personally it was quite obvious from the beginning there were 2 killers, I should have seen it coming that it was of course mommy dearest and her son who were behind the poisoning and the pushing in to the elevator shaft.

Even though it saddens me as I did enjoy Sazz, I did think the ending of this episode was really good. I can see that apparently it has been renewed for a fourth season? But I'd say with an ending like that they would've had to.

Will miss my Tuesday nights watching OMITB!

A Murder Mystery with a Twist

[lakings97 · 8/10 · 24 October 2023]

Only Murders in the Building: Season Three on Hulu returned with the small trio case solvers Steve Martin, Martin Short and Selena Gomez. It is incredible how these murders only follow them and this season the trio split with Short returning to Broadway to direct a Musical, Steve Martin being preoccupied with his long time makeup artist played by Andrea Martin, while Selena is off trying to solve the case by herself. Broadway brought the murder to the group with a cast that included Paul Rudd, Meryl Streep, and Jesse Williams. The storyline was deep with a twist but without the back stories and the flash backup sequences it just would not make any sense. The cast also included Ashley Park, Jeremy Shamos and Linda Emond with a cameo by Matthew Broderick and Jane Lynch. The story was a bit slower but kind of loved the musical performances. I would definitely recommend this series with another season in the works.

Opening Night

[Prismark10 · 6/10 · 4 March 2024]

The last two episodes of Only Murders in the Building was a return to form. The finale also had some nice directorial touches.

Charles, Oliver and Mabel suspect that producer Donna DeMeo killed Ben Glenroy.

First by poisoning his cookie. Then when that did not work, throwing him down the elevator shaft.

The trio end up surprised to find out. Instead of denying the crime Donna admits to everything.

She is in advanced stages of cancer and regarded Ben as a liability to the show.

It was maybe all a bit too neat. Especially when Mabel watches Loretta telling the truth to Dickie about his maternity.

There were some good wisecracks on opening night. Grouchy Uma calling Oliver a quadruple threat for being bad at everything.

I did think it was all a little too late to redeem the third series. I also guessed there was more to Donna's apparent confession.

comedy ,murder and mother

[AvionPrince16 · 6/10 · 5 November 2023]

So basically the episode is a confrontation with the killer that its seem to be Donna . But we have another revelation its that the fact the killer was in reality the son .and it was pretty unexpected to be honest. But it make sense and we have also the big representation of the musical . And everything is revealed : how the killer and Ben fought in the building . Another case solved and after that we hear all. The characters talked about their project and we have that woman who get agressed at the end to make us curious about the new season.

So this season was one of the worst for me :the comedy become too much sometimes and we have some useless scenes and dialogues sometimes and even some episode who really felt like an episode who have nothing to tell except the few revelations here and there that make awake our curiosity and make the investigations keep going . But i get really bored and sometimes didnt want to watch or get tired of the non sense comedy or the useless talks .even if the end was interesting and the fact that it was not Donna the real killer was surprising but except that a really flat season with a classic plot and even the characters conflicts was superficial ( get angry at each other in one episode and after that they suddenly make peace without any reason ) so yeah not the best season for me but its still a murder mystery and still curious about who killed Ben but thats all for me.

Episode 310

[bobcobb301 · 8 October 2023]

Overall I guess this finale was okay. It did seem a little long, but we got to see some of the ridiculous show and there was nothing that annoying about it, but they focused way too much on a meaningless side character, and they didn't even live up to the murder concept. This was more like manslaughter 2 or something.

The show definitely lost a little bit of its charm this season and I think they need to find a way to get it back. It needs to involve New York and the people in the building and hopefully with the departures to Los Angeles, they can get back to those roots in the next upcoming season.