Why ‘Only Murders in the Building’ is the best fall show

Welcome back to another season of “Only Murders in the Building” …

As the days get shorter and the nights draw in sooner, the need for some good fall television has become more crucial. After a long day of classes and an even longer evening of homework and studying, one of the best ways to wind down is by curling up with a good show. But what should you watch?

VALLEY has the perfect answer, and it’s called “Only Murders in the Building.”

The Plot

“Only Murders in the Building” is a fictional crime/comedy series that is available on both Hulu and Disney+. The show stars Selena Gomez, Steve Martin and Martin Short as Mabel, Charles and Oliver, three strangers that band together to solve a murder in their building. Their detective skills inspire them to create their own true crime podcast, which they call “Only Murders in the Building,” as they attempt to solve the crime.

First airing in 2021, the show now has five seasons that each focus on a new murder that just happens to have occurred in their apartment complex, The Arconia. Each season contains ten episodes that run from 30 to 40 minutes, making “Only Murders” a very bingeable watch.

“Only Murders in the Building” is a great show to add to your list this fall if you’re in need of something new and entertaining. Each season is full of murder, humor and a surprising ending that viewers never expect.

“Sometimes you do have to make a mess to clean one up.”

-Oliver Putnam

The Setting

One of the reasons why this show is the perfect fall watch is the iconic New York setting. New York always gives VALLEY fall vibes, with its historic buildings, concrete architecture and abundance of colorful trees. 

The fictional apartment building featured in the show, The Arconia, is both glamorous and luxurious each time it hits the screen. Although the location of the murders, the building exudes both comfort and elegance, and is based on a real Upper West Side apartment known as The Belnord.

According to House Beautiful, John Hoffman, co-creator of the show, said The Belnord “basically wrote itself into [the] show as its own central compelling character.” This gorgeous and intriguing building is definitely one of the show’s many highlights that makes it an aesthetic watch.

“Sometimes it’s easier to figure out someone else’s secret than it is to deal with your own.”

-Charles-Haden Savage

The Fashion

VALLEY always appreciates good fashion, and “Only Murders” does not disappoint in this arena. From long, elegant coats to chic jackets and blazers, the fashion in the show screams fall. The comfortable looks and muted tones worn by the characters all add to the show’s autumnal aura.

Each episode, Selena Gomez graces the screen with iconic looks that match her character, Mabel’s smart and witty personality. Her fur jackets, knit sweaters and matching sets make us all envious of her incredible wardrobe. The costume department truly hit a home run.

“Women who knock barely make history.”

-Mabel Mora

The Vibe

Even though this show is a murder mystery, it is actually not scary at all, making it a relaxing watch that is perfect for anti-horror viewers.

Gomez, Martin and Short make an iconic trio whose natural chemistry and hilarious banter keep us all coming back for more. The show also features a variety of iconic celebrity guests, including Paul Rudd, Meryl Streep, Tina Fey and more. 

If you’re looking for a new comfort show this fall, “Only Murders in the Building” is definitely the way to go.

The only question that remains is, “Who did it?” There’s only one way to find out.

Have you watched “Only Murders in the Building”? Let us know your thoughts on X, @VALLEYmag!

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