If you have been following me for a while, then you already know that I adore Only Murders in the Building. The show, while simple, is an endearing comedic crime-drama and that is in large part to the wonderful trio of Steve Martin, Martin Short and Selena Gomez. When the show was renewed for Season 2 (prior to Season 1’s release!), it was clear Hulu had something special on its hands. After watching the first season, fans like myself were eagerly awaiting more and I am happy to say that Only Murders S2 is just as good as the first season, if not better. 

Only Murders S2 predominantly relies on the same formula as the first season and, while that is often a criticism for film and television, it absolutely works here. A show like Only Murders isn’t complicated and the writers know that all they need to do is make the show funny and interesting enough to keep us coming back for more, which they do.

The delightful trio of Steve Martin, Martin Short and Selena Gomez had great chemistry in Season 1 and thankfully, that carries through into Season 2. While Martin was the focus and standout of the first season, it is Gomez who steals the spotlight and gives an Emmy-worthy performance as Mabel Mora in season 2. After a shocking cliffhanger in the S1 finale, it was clear that all eyes would be on Mabel for season 2 and Gomez makes the most of this by giving a performance that is emotional, ruthless, and comedic all rolled into one. Gomez has some seriously good acting chops and Only Murders S2 might be her best performance to date.

Only Murders In The Building — “Persons of Interest” – Episode 201 — Welcome home, Arconiacs! Minutes after Season 1’s finale, Charles, Oliver and Mabel are now implicated in the murder of Board President, Bunny Folger. They must choose whether to lay low or risk their safety by catching the killer themselves. As they grapple with that choice, fireworks ensue. Mabel (Selena Gomez), shown. (Photo by: Craig Blankenhorn/Hulu)

In the first season, the recurring cast and guest stars gave us some of the best moments in the show and that continues in season 2. It’s great to see familiar faces like Tina Fey as Cinda Canning and Nathan Lane as Teddy Dimas, but it is some of the new faces that have the greatest impact. Friends actor Michael Rapaport as Detective Kreps, Cara Delevingne as Alice Banks and Andrea Martin as Joy all show up for small bits that manage to steal the show.

The writing for this season is exceptional. The writers came up with a great plot to follow up on Season 1 and to expand the mythos of Only Murders, but they also manage to keep the show funny and fresh. This show breaks the sophomore curse that we see far too often. Here’s to hoping that the third season’s writing stays as consistent as the first two.

Only Murders In The Building — “The Last Day Of Bunny Folger” – Episode 203 — A foul-mouthed parrot becomes a critical window into Bunny Folger’s last day on Earth. Some of the individuals with whom Bunny crossed paths will surprise both you and our trio… Along the way, a reveal deepens our trio’s need to solve Bunny’s case. Charles (Steve Martin), Mabel (Selena Gomez) and Oliver (Martin Short), shown. (Photo by:Craig Blankenhorn/Hulu)

Only Murders In The Building Season 2 may follow the same formula as season 1 but that doesn’t mean that the show is lacking in quality. In fact, it retains the same quality as the first season and in some ways, surpasses it.  This show is heartwarming, fun to watch, and full of twists and turns that will keep you coming back for more.  

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