This season on Only Murders in the Building has been different from previous ones because there is an intimate bond between the victim and one of our main trio. Charles is shaken up from the death of a close friend and he has issues coping with the loss. At least in “The Stunt Man,” he can do something special for Sazz posthumously.
The episode does a good job portraying Charles’ grief to the point that Sazz haunts his dreams. It’s a little disturbing to see how her condition deteriorates during each of his visions mirroring the growing guilt and despair he feels. There’s even more of a gut punch when he learns how much pain Sazz was in due to her lengthy career as a stunt man, many of which was spent as his.
All the mixed emotions helps set up Charles’ touching gesture for his fallen friend. The antics at the wake keep things light hearted, and also reflect some of the sacrifice Charles make considering what he goes through. Sazz can finally receive the proper sendoff she deserved and would want.
The exploration of Sazz and her colleagues leads to one of the most shocking quasi returns to Only Murders in the Building. The execution comes off as one big joke, particularly with the ridiculous accent, and it fits right in with the quirky portrayal of the stunt professionals. It’s all very amusing, but the reveal might be too zany. If you thought the Jan appearance was silly, this one is bonkers.
Not all of the silliness is constricted to Concussions, the stunt man bar. Howard becomes entangled into his own shenanigans. Michael Cyril Creighton receives a nice moment to comedically shine. Furthermore, there is some sharp commentary about and swipes at the entire film making process. From the audition to the eccentric directors to Howard’s inability to be cast as himself speak to Hollywood’s stereotypical unpredictable nature.
Only Murders in the Building continues its mastery of the cliffhanger, keeping viewers invested and anticipating the next episode. There are some juicy developments left up in the air including Mabel’s decision to partner up with the Westies. More importantly, is the attacker that ambushes Charles, Oliver, and Mabel. So many unanswered questions about that situation.
Despite all the absurdity, “The Stunt Man” is a fitting and poignant send off to the season’s victim.
New episodes of Only Murders in the Building release Tuesdays on Hulu.
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