Only Murders in the Building has become a standout show in the world of television, blending comedy, mystery, and drama into an addictive series that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The show follows three unlikely friends — Charles (Steve Martin), Oliver (Martin Short), and Mabel (Selena Gomez) — who are obsessed with true crime podcasts and find themselves embroiled in a real-life murder investigation in their own apartment building. While the on-screen antics are enough to captivate any audience, the behind-the-scenes story of how this hit series was made is equally fascinating. Let’s take a closer look at the making of Only Murders in the Building and discover what it took to bring this unique show to life.
Creating the Concept: A Perfect Blend of Comedy and Mystery
The concept for Only Murders in the Building was born out of a collaboration between Steve Martin, a comedy legend, and John Hoffman, a writer known for his work on Grace and Frankie. Martin had been playing with the idea of a comedic mystery for years, drawing inspiration from his love of classic detective stories and his own comedic sensibilities. Hoffman saw potential in Martin’s idea and helped develop it into a full-fledged series, adding layers of complexity, suspense, and humor to create a fresh take on the murder mystery genre.
One of the unique aspects of the show is its focus on a trio of amateur sleuths who are all passionate about true crime podcasts. This allowed the creators to play with the conventions of both the comedy and mystery genres, resulting in a show that is as funny as it is suspenseful. According to the creators, this blending of genres was intentional; they wanted to craft a series that could appeal to a broad audience while keeping the core elements of a classic whodunit.
Casting the Trio: Chemistry and Star Power
The casting of the three main characters was a critical aspect of the show’s success. Steve Martin and Martin Short, who have a long history of working together and share a natural comedic chemistry, were obvious choices. Their rapport and timing bring a distinct charm to the series, allowing for both humor and heartfelt moments. Selena Gomez, a pop star and actress known for her roles in Disney productions and her music career, was brought on to balance the dynamic duo with a fresh and contemporary perspective.
The decision to cast Gomez alongside Martin and Short added a generational contrast that enriched the narrative. Her character, Mabel, represents a younger, modern audience, while Martin and Short’s characters provide the experience and nostalgia that older audiences might relate to. This intergenerational mix has proven to be a winning formula, with the chemistry between the three leads becoming one of the show’s defining features.
Designing the World: The Arconia
The Arconia, the grand apartment building where the murder takes place, serves as more than just a backdrop; it is a character in its own right. To bring the Arconia to life, the production team meticulously designed sets that reflected the building’s old-world charm and hidden secrets. The lobby, hallways, and individual apartments were all crafted to evoke a sense of mystery, with rich textures, vintage décor, and intricate details that hint at the building’s storied past.
The use of color and lighting was carefully considered to create an atmosphere that blends both the whimsical and the eerie. Cinematographer Chris Teague played a key role in achieving the show’s distinct visual style, employing a mix of warm and cool tones to capture the quirky yet suspenseful mood. This attention to detail extends to the costumes as well, with each character’s wardrobe reflecting their unique personality and background.
A Collaborative Creative Process
The making of Only Murders in the Building was a deeply collaborative process, with the creators, cast, and crew all contributing to the show’s unique style and tone. The writers’ room, led by Martin and Hoffman, worked closely with the cast to develop the characters and plotlines. Improvisation was encouraged on set, allowing the actors to explore their characters more deeply and bring their own comedic flair to the dialogue.
Music also plays a crucial role in the series, with composer Siddhartha Khosla crafting a score that complements the show’s quirky, mysterious vibe. The music, combined with smart editing and sound design, helps build tension and enhance comedic moments, adding another layer of depth to the storytelling.
Connecting with Fans: The Only Murders In The Building Shop
The success of Only Murders in the Building has also translated into a thriving line of merchandise. The Only Murders In The Building shop offers a range of items that allow fans to show their love for the show, including clothing, accessories, and collectibles. From t-shirts with iconic quotes to replicas of the characters’ favorite podcast equipment, the shop has something for every fan. This merchandising strategy has created another avenue for engagement, allowing viewers to feel even more connected to the world of the show.
A Show That Breaks the Mold
Only Murders in the Building has managed to carve out a unique niche in television by combining elements of comedy, drama, and mystery in a way that feels fresh and original. The show’s behind-the-scenes story is one of creative collaboration, innovative storytelling, and a commitment to crafting something truly unique. As the series continues to captivate audiences, fans can look forward to more twists, turns, and laughs — and, of course, more exclusive finds from the Only Murders In The Building shop.
