Summary
The trailer forOnly Murders in the Buildingseason 4 just dropped, and one subtle line has me excited about how this new season will critique the true crime genre. Since 2021,Only Murders in the Buildinghas created an impressive blend of comedy, mystery, and drama. With amazing performances from Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez, the show has been able to successfully twist the true crime genre. However, it seems thatOnly Murders in the Buildingseason 4might finally do some reflecting on the downsides of the true crime genre, and I personally cannot wait.
Only Murders in the Buildingseason 4 sees the return of Charles, Oliver, and Mabel, who have received notable success for their podcast. In fact, they have become so popular that a movie is being made about them and their project. Eugene Levy, Eva Longoria, and Zach GalafinakisjoinOnly Murders in the Building’scastto play Charles, Mabel, and Oliver, respectively. However, this Hollywood film hits a serious curb when a murder occurs. Thus,we see Charles, Oliver, and Mabel dive into yet another mysteryas the movie industry tries to romanticize and fictionalize the crimes they have solved.
I Love Only Murders In The Building, But I Hope Season 4 Is The Last One
Only Murders in the Building is an entertaining whodunnit that blends comedy with layered character development, but it could be time to end the show.
Only Murders In The Building Season 4’s Trailer Subtly Throws Shade At True Crime
Why True Crime Gets Backlash
One part of the trailer that really stuck out to me was a very brief moment of dialogue between Mabel and Eva Longoria.Mabel reveals that someone has been murdered and Eva respondswith an unironic and enthusiastic “Yay!” While this moment definitely made me laugh, it also reflects a more serious aspect of the true crime genre. While Eva and the rest of Hollywood are trying to commodifyOnly Murders in the Building, Mabel, Charles, and Oliver are trying to actually solve murders and put peoples' souls to rest. Notably, this is a very real problem in true crime.
By consuming true crime, some believe that viewers are desensitizing themselves to the grave reality of true crime.
True crime has become one of the most popular genres of TV and movies, yet it has faced quite a bit of backlash over the years. As more podcasts, documentaries, andtrue crime showscome out,many have raised the argument that true crime romanticizes actual crimesthat have seriously affected people. By consuming true crime, some believe that viewers are desensitizing themselves to the grave reality of true crime. These are not just stories, but real events have hurt people. It seems to me thatOnly Murders in the Buildingwants to broach this important topic in season 4.
Only Murders In The Building Has Already Changed The Game
I’m honestly thrilled thatOnly Murders in the Buildingis diving into criticisms of true crime. Although the show itself is completely fictionalized, it is also the perfect vessel to discuss this topic.Charles, Oliver, and Mabel have a podcast documenting the crimes they solve, but there’s a sense of responsibility about it. The trio isn’t trying to capitalize on these crimes, but instead, are seeking answers, justice, and creative satisfaction. In this way, I think they are a great antithesis to the Hollywood producers, real and make-believe, who are so eager to make a flashy true crime movie.
Only Murders in the Buildingseason 4 is premiering on July 21, 2025.
Only Murders in the Buildingis also perfect for this topicbecause it has already had an effect on the genre. Over the course of three seasons, the show has walked a fine line between mystery and comedy.Only Murders in the Building’scasthave perfected the balance between serious moments and hilarious ones. In this way, the show has proven that true crime and mystery can be respectful and serious while also having moments of levity. With season 4 presenting a totally new situation, I am excited to see how the trio reacts and moves forward in this landscape.
I Hope Only Murders In The Building Goes Further Than This One Season 4 Line
How Only Murders In The Building Can Criticize True Crime Further
ThoughOnly Murders in the Building’strailerhas presented only one line criticizing true crime, I hope the show goes even further. While many viewers have come face-to-face with true crime and its problems,I think it would be beneficial for a popular show likeOnly Murders in the Buildingto include this topic. True crime can definitely be an entertaining medium, butOnly Murders in the Buildingcan act as a reminder that these stories have very real consequences.
In many ways, I already see how this aspect of the story will evolve. Though Charles and Oliver have their own perspectives on the upcoming movie, it is clear that Mabel is hesitant about the whole thing. I suspect that she will be the character who really questions true crime and brings to light its major criticisms.Only Murders in the Buildingcan also use the movie to highlight real life problems with true crime. Overall, I am excited to see what the mystery comedy comes up with.
Only Murders in the Building
Cast
Only Murders in the Building is a mystery-comedy series following three strangers, portrayed by Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez, who bond over their shared obsession with true crime. Set in a Manhattan apartment building, the trio becomes embroiled in a real murder mystery within their residence.
