Only Murders’ season 4 finale is a love-letter to its leads

As a devoted fan of “Only Murders in the Building,” I find myself captivated by each season’s intricate plot twists and the dynamic trio at its core – Mabel, Oliver, and Charles. The latest episode was no exception, showcasing their unique camaraderie and the challenges they face together.

The final episode of “Only Murders in the Building” Season 4 serves as an affectionate tribute to its principal characters, following a season filled with celebrity-centric intrigue.

Following nine installments filled with misleading clues, ham radio mysteries, and behind-the-scenes drama typical of Hollywood, viewers witnessed Sass’s (Jane Lynch) murderer receiving justice at last, as they were revealed in the second-to-last episode.

It’s revealed that the author Marshal P Pope (Jin Ha from ‘Pachinko’) was once Rex Bailey, Sass’s protégé and stunt double, who worked with her during the failed Project Ronkonkoma. In flashbacks, we find Sass giving an inexperienced Marshall a valuable secret – a script for a movie she has been developing, similar to ‘Only Murders in the Building’.

Instead of anything Marshall might have penned down, he deceives Sass by promising to give it back with annotations, but instead takes it, alters her name to his own, and presents it to a multitude of Hollywood producers as his work.

Following the revelation of Marshall’s treachery, Sass challenges him with the intention of rectifying the situation. However, in a startling turn of events, a flustered Marshall – revealed to have been trained as a “hunter” by his father – manages to sneak into Dudenoff’s apartment located in the west wing (adjacent to Charles, played by Steve Martin). In a chilling act, Marshall then callously shoots Sass.

Indeed, much like how “Only Murders in the Building” fans have grown accustomed to, the central murder mystery can seem a bit worn out this season, taking a backseat to the other elements that define the show’s unique identity. However, we keep returning for more because of the off-the-wall antics and laughter provided by our beloved trio, Charles, Mabel (played by Selena Gomez), and Oliver (Martin Short). It’s their endearing camaraderie as they bumble along in solving yet another case that keeps us hooked.

Occasionally, it seems as though the writers have downplayed or even neglected a crucial dynamic between characters, focusing instead on the high-profile Hollywood actors who join as guest stars in season four. Was it necessary to dedicate an entire episode to Long Island, featuring Melissa McCarthy portraying Charles’ flamboyant, suburban sister Doreen dressed as Tammy Faye?

In addition, there’s an ‘arthouse’ episode that delves into the Brothers’ directing of the ‘Only Murders’ film and their connections with Griffin Dunne (Dudenoff), as well as a full-length feature about the Arconia residents known as the ‘Westies’. This group shares how they unlawfully sublet from Dudenoff before his demise, with appearances by Kumail Nanjiani and Richard Kind.

Incorporate into this the long-term storyline featuring Eva Longoria, Eugene Levy, and Zach Galifianakis portraying fictionalized versions of Mabel, Charles, and Oliver, respectively – and let me tell you, it’s quite a spectacle.

Although the large group of characters serve well in generating suspicion and weaving tangled threads to divert attention from the true assassin, they simultaneously limit the amount of screen time available for our detective trio to excel.

Fortunately, the final installment brings Charles, Oliver, and Mabel back into the limelight, returning them to their rightful places. This episode emphasizes them and their bond, a testament to their enduring friendship.

Mabel’s charm is evident as she’s captive and anticipates rescue, showing her impact on the two elderly gentlemen. Upon revealing the murderer’s name, Oliver admires Charles for his clever use of an accent when writing ‘protégé’. He says with a satisfied grin, “Don’t you think it’s cool? Mabel taught me that.

Over at the Dudenoff apartment, I find myself huddled with Marshall, working diligently on his “Only Murders” script. I suggest tweaking it to buy us some extra time. Looking critically at the screenplay, I comment, “You’ve got Charles logging onto AOL here.” When he jokes about his age, I retort, “No, I’ve taught him better than that.

It’s evident that Mabel has been beneficial to both Charles and Oliver; now it’s their turn to reciprocate her kindness. Upon learning about Mabel’s peril from a text message, the duo immediately spring into action to rescue their friend.

A humorous sequence unfolds as the duo dance a merengue (“step and drag”) across the Arconia building’s ledge, heading for Mabel’s apartment window where she’s trapped. As Charles’ fright escalates, Oliver encourages him with: “Remember, that’s Mabel in there. You’ve already lost Sass. Let your bond drive you to secure her safety.

Following Marshall being shot (by Amy Ryan reprising her role as Jan), the episode unfolds another significant moment: Oliver’s wedding. This stage star declares his vows to actress Loretta (portrayed by Meryl Streep), ultimately securing his joyful conclusion.

In a sentimental scene, fans see Oliver walked down the aisle by Mabel and Charles, perfectly encapsulating the love and pride they hold for one another. Yet it’s a bittersweet moment with the threat that the threesome may be losing a member.

At the start of the episode, Oliver expresses his intention to move to New Zealand with Loretta, following her announcement about a TV show she needs to film there. Later, during their wedding, the topic resurfaces, with Oliver reaffirming his decision to relocate. However, Loretta recognizes the significant sacrifice Oliver is making in this offer.

He assures her, “It will be there for you,” to which she responds, “But you won’t be with them.” The scene shifts to a cheerful interaction between Mabel and Charles, while Oliver watches longingly from afar.

It’s fortunate that the newlywed doesn’t adhere to tradition and allows Oliver to remain with his Arconia relatives, as long as he pays a visit soon. Moreover, given the recent finding of another deceased individual, who was unfortunately the doorman, Lester, it seems impossible for him to depart at this moment.

To ensure that season five maintains the same level of dedication towards its main characters, it should do so with reverence for the show’s audience and the time invested in making those characters relatable over numerous seasons.

The charm of “Only Murders” resides in Mabel, Oliver, and Charles, and it just so happens that they team up to solve murders. In truth, we would find their company equally enjoyable even as they perform the most ordinary activities together.

Only Murders in the Building seasons 1-4 are streaming on Disney+.

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2024-10-31 14:49