Media Review: Get lost in the mystery of “Only Murders in the Building”

Media Review: Get lost in the mystery of “Only Murders in the Building”

If you’re looking for a new murder mystery to dive into, you’re in for a real treat with “Only Murders in the Building.” Starring Selena Gomez, Martin Short and Steve Martin, this series challenges the idea of a classic murder mystery/true crime storyline by combining the two elements, creating an intriguing atmosphere with complex, suspenseful mysteries. Perfect for fans of “The Hardy Boys,” “Clue” and “Knives Out,” Hulu’s “Only Murders in the Building” will have murder mystery and true crime fans alike on the edge of their seats.

Over recent years, true crime podcasts have taken the world by storm, and the fictional universe of “Only Murders in the Building” is no exception. Recently releasing its third season, the murder mystery comedy/drama features disparate characters Mabel Mora, Charles Haden-Savage and Oliver Putnam, who live in the same apartment building, New York City’s “Arconia.” While these three seem as if they couldn’t be more different, they all share a collective interest in the fictional true crime podcast “All is not OK in Oklahoma.” When they discover their shared interest, they quickly become friends as they attempt to solve the murder in the podcast. What they don’t expect, though, is that they may have to put their mystery-solving skills to use when a sudden death occurs in the Arconia.

What makes this stand out from other mystery shows is its connection to true crime podcasts. Like many of its audience members, Mora, Haden-Savage and Putnam love to get sucked into a deep, spellbound mystery, further relating the characters to the audience. While the premise of the show surrounds a fictional podcast, at its heart, it’s really about how something so seemingly small can bring people together.

Many may not know that beloved actress and singer Gomez is an executive producer of the show. Gomez has done it all–she starred in Disney’s “Wizards of Waverly Place,” became a pop star and received Grammy, Emmy and Golden Globe awards. Growing up watching true crime shows with her mom, starring and producing “Only Murders in the Building” was the perfect opportunity for Gomez, who loves crime-solving just as much as her character does.

As someone who avidly enjoys binging murder mystery movies, books and TV shows, I adored “Only Murders in the Building.” The podcast element of the show was what initially drew me in, but I kept watching it for the transfixing mystery and the intriguing character dynamics. Mora, Haden-Savage and Putnam become like a family, ironically finding solace, comfort and acceptance in each other during these dark times. As the seasons continue and new mysteries are introduced, the trio will stop at nothing to uncover the truth and bring innocent people justice.