THIS IS A SPOILER-FREE REVIEW

Story: Returning to the Arconia with a new mystery, the show delves deeper into the lives of Charles-Haden Savage (Steve Martin), Oliver Putnam (Martin Short), and Mabel Mora (Selena Gomez) as they navigate the complexities of a friend’s death.

Review: Only Murders in the Building Season 4 expertly balances the familiar charm of its lead trio with a fresh Hollywood twist, making it a thoroughly enjoyable ride for both long-time fans and newcomers. As always, the trio’s dynamic shines through, with Martin’s dry wit, Short’s exuberant energy, and Gomez’s deadpan humour, creating a perfect blend of comedic timing and heartfelt moments.

One of the standout aspects of Season 4 is its expanded setting. While the Arconia remains central, the show introduces Hollywood into the mix, with a film adaptation of the trio’s podcast in the works. This new backdrop provides a fresh playground for the series’ signature meta-humour and brings in a roster of guest stars, including Eugene Levy, Zach Galifianakis, and Eva Longoria. Their portrayals of exaggerated versions of Charles, Oliver, and Mabel are hilarious and insightful, offering a satirical look at the absurdities of fame and the film industry.

However, despite its many strengths, Season 4 has flaws. The pacing occasionally falters, particularly in the middle episodes, and not every joke hits the mark. Some sequences feel slightly out of place in a show known for its sharp wit. Nevertheless, the season’s many successes easily overshadow these minor missteps.

The return of Meryl Streep as Oliver’s love interest, Loretta, adds depth to his character arc, exploring themes of insecurity and ageing. Meanwhile, Mabel’s struggle with finding direction in her life resonates strongly, grounding the series in real emotional stakes amid the comedy and mystery.

Only Murders in the Building Season 4 is a vibrant, cleverly crafted continuation of a series that has consistently delivered both laughs and suspense. While it may not quite reach the heights of its first season, it remains a standout in the streaming landscape, leaving viewers eagerly anticipating what’s next for this unlikely trio of detectives.