When we last left Only Murders in the Building, the gang found themselves on the wrong end of a gun when arriving at Sazz’s training camp for stunt work. The person pointing the weapon at them is none other than movie producer, Bev Melon. Has she come to make a permanent end to their investigation?
The previous cliffhanger is another typical Only Murders in the Building misdirect. Chalk it up to a simple misunderstanding, but Bev does express her concerns that the killer is someone working on the film. The absurd situation sets the silly tone for the episode, which keeps things on the lighter side.
This season has been a satirical ode to the film industry, and “Adaptation” takes it to another level. Through screen writer and Charlie Kaufman wannabe, Marshall Peepope, we explore the fakeness of Hollywood and imposter syndrome. Jin Ha embodies the geeky fanboy as Marshall becomes more involved in the case.
The directors, the Brothers sisters, are your typical eccentric geniuses with far out ideas. It’s funny how they can communicate with each other using only their facial expressions, and their suggestion for the photoshoot of going wiener to wiener is one of the most hilarious moments all season of Only Murders in the Building. Most enamored with the industry is Howard, who uses the lingo like a pro, dresses the part, and strictly enforces the on set hierarchy. He’s only been on the job a day! It’s nice they can poke fun in entertaining ways.
Even the mystery takes an amusing turn with the recreation of the events the night of the murder. Charles’ theoretical approach pictures himself as the professional assassin carrying out a precise hit. The scene allows Steve Martin to be his charming self. Though he is dressed as a super spy, he has the suaveness of an awkward, clumsy old man.
Equally funny is Oliver’s actual execution of Charles’ theory. He will never be mistaken as a prime athlete, so there are plenty of opportunities to show off Martin Short’s impeccable physical comedy. In addition, it might even feel more surreal than Charles’ imagination with how ridiculous it comes off along with an unexpected cameo.
The main reason the humor is able to land more effectively compared to other episodes is because there is no deep character introspective about relationships and death to dampen the good vibes or cause a tonal disconnect. The most serious the episode gets is highlighting Oliver’s insecurities over his relationship with Loretta. However, that is played more for comedic effect as well with Oliver having to prove his manliness as well as the running joke about Loretta’s co-star.
“Adaptation” sets the silly tone early, and with its jabs at Hollywood and delusional male leads, it creates one of the funniest episodes of the season.
New episodes of Only Murders in the Building launch Tuesdays on Hulu.
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