While there haven’t been any Halloween episodes in Only Murders in the Building, the Arconia trio has found themselves in several eerie situations throughout the show.
From grave-robbing escapades to a serial-killer-themed party game, and even showing the creepy halls of Arconia’s West Side, the series has not shied away from spooky encounters.
The show’s third season takes these elements to a new level, showcasing the talents of Meryl Streep and featuring an original Broadway musical.
However, amidst all the excitement, it is the recent episode that stands out as the most chilling the series has offered yet. The episode introduces a new suspect in the murder of Paul Rudd’s character, the spoiled and obnoxious Ben Glenroy: a ghost!
A Ghostly Encounter in a Haunted Theater
In this intriguing episode, Oliver, played by Martin Short, directs his play-turned-musical, Death Rattle Dazzle!, in the elegant Goosebury Theater. Like many old buildings, this theater has a rich and sometimes dark history, which adds to the suspense of the story.
In his opening narration for Season 3’s “Ghost Light,” Howard (played by Michael Cyril Creighton) states, “Theaters are known for their ghosts.”
This acknowledgment sets the tone for a season themed around musicals, making it clear that the scheme of haunted theaters will add depth to the storyline.
The episode cleverly weaves in real-life tales of theater curses, particularly the infamous “Macbeth” curse, which often sends shivers down the spines of actors.
In the theater community, it is believed that it is safer to refer to this play as “The Scottish Play” to avoid invoking its notorious superstition. This element of theatrical lore brings a sense of authenticity and excitement to the episode.
In Only Murders in the Building, the series introduces its own version of a curse that starts with a tragic incident.
A performance by Gideon Goosebury, played by Quentin Pardee Collins, takes a deadly turn when a sandbag falls and crushes his head. This shocking moment sets the spooky tone for the episode.
The scene is presented in a stylized black-and-white flashback, creating a haunting atmosphere that engages viewers right from the start.
As the stormy weather rages outside the Arconia, Howard becomes frantic. He confesses to Charles (played by Steve Martin), Mabel (played by Selena Gomez), and Oliver that he angered Gideon’s spirit by failing to follow a ritual meant to appease the dead.
This supernatural plotline doesn’t feel out of place in a series that works hard to add depth and realism to its characters, both main and supporting.
Ghosts Are Everywhere in ‘Only Murders in the Building’
The presence of death is a constant in Only Murders in the Building. Characters frequently encounter the Grim Reaper, whether it’s a childhood friend or a grumpy tenant president.
However, after these characters lose their lives, they do not simply vanish; they linger on, especially through the podcast and the Arconia trio’s emotional attachments to them.
This unique approach allows a grieving Charles to connect with Sazz (played by Jane Lynch) in Season 4, creating an interesting dynamic that shows the aftermath of loss.
What sets the episode “Ghost Light” apart from previous encounters is the supernatural twist. The Arconia trio, alongside Howard, investigates whether the reported “haunting” is real.
Could they find themselves in the role of ghost hunters? The possibilities are intriguing and add another layer to the narrative.
In Season 2’s “Hello Darkness,” the trio ventured into the secret, maze-like hallways behind their apartment walls during a city-wide blackout, pursued by a knife-wielding killer.
While that episode had multiple storylines intertwined with the main characters, the setting of the Goosebury Theater in “Ghost Light” creates a more confined and ominous atmosphere.
The characters are trapped in a dimly lit theater, which heightens the suspense. During this episode, Howard witnesses a ghostly figure, and the stage’s ghost light shuts off.
This ghost light is traditionally meant to ward off restless spirits. Moreover, falling sandbags nearly injure Charles, adding to the tension.
Before “Ghost Light” becomes too chilling, it includes moments of levity that keep viewers engaged.
The Cozy Mystery Series Can Get Spooky
Unlike The Phantom of the Opera, where a disfigured character haunts the theater, Only Murders in the Building takes a different approach.
Oliver discovers that the ghost Howard saw is Jerry Blau (played by Peter Bartlett), an old friend and former director who has been squatting in the attic.
Jerry has been keeping himself busy by cooking rats or creating paper puppets. His intentions are not malicious; he simply loosened the sandbags to scare Charles and the others away, without meaning to cause any real harm. This quirky character adds a layer of humor to the eerie storyline.
In the midst of the ghost subplot, Charles has brought along his pet fish, President McKinley, as a source of comfort following his recent breakup with Joy (played by Andrea Martin).
The presence of the fish serves as a light-hearted element, reminding viewers that even during spooky times, there can be moments of warmth and humor.
The episode concludes with Howard gaining confidence when he realizes that inviting Gideon Goosebury into the production is a more effective strategy than trying to appease his spirit.
This character growth is a key theme in the series, demonstrating that even in the face of supernatural challenges, there are opportunities for personal development.
Although “Ghost Light” might feel like a filler episode that allows characters to breathe and show their stories, the ending carries a darker tone.
After years of being single, Oliver becomes increasingly anxious about Loretta (played by Meryl Streep) potentially being Ben’s killer.
In a moment of frustration, he tries to get rid of a clue, leading to a confrontation with Charles and Mabel that strains their friendship.
The grim face Oliver sees looking back at him from a mirror starkly contrasts with the flamboyant energy he usually exudes.
As the moody score by Siddhartha Khosla plays, there may not be any supernatural activity occurring at the Goosebury Theater, but Oliver’s inner turmoil gives him a sense of feeling cursed nonetheless. This scheme of character emotions is one of the show’s strengths, balancing humor and drama effectively.
A Unique Blend of Horror and Humor
One of the standout qualities of Only Murders in the Building is its ability to mix various tones and themes seamlessly. The show knows how to create poignant storylines while injecting humor to avoid becoming too dark or heavy.
Whenever the series incorporates horror-themed situations, it manages to keep them from becoming overly sinister. “Ghost Light” is undeniably the spookiest episode of this cozy mystery series, but earlier seasons also featured chilling moments.
For instance, in Season 1, the characters encountered a grave-robbing conspiracy that left viewers on the edge of their seats. In Season 2, Oliver orchestrated a card game called “Son of Sam,” all while set to the tune of Talking Heads’ “Psycho Killer.”
Season 4 promises even more excitement, as fans can look forward to a jump scare from Jan (played by Amy Ryan) and the unsettling implications surrounding Sazz’s murder cover-up.
All these elements combined create a strong case for the need for a proper Halloween episode in Only Murders in the Building. With the show’s ability to balance mystery and humor, a Halloween special would offer the perfect opportunity to full deeper themes while keeping the spirit of the series alive.
The Evolving Dynamic of the Arconia Trio
As Only Murders in the Building continues to develop, the dynamics between Charles, Oliver, and Mabel remain a focal point. Their friendship faces challenges, especially when personal conflicts arise amidst their investigations.
In “Ghost Light,” viewers see how these tensions manifest as Oliver grapples with his feelings about Loretta and her potential involvement in Ben’s murder.
This internal struggle affects his interactions with Charles and Mabel, leading to moments of friction that remind audiences that even the closest friendships can be tested.
The scheme of these relationships adds depth to the narrative. It allows viewers to connect with the characters on a personal level, making their triumphs and struggles feel more relatable.
The show highlights the importance of communication and understanding within friendships, particularly during stressful times.
As the season progresses, fans are likely to witness further growth in the characters’ relationships, leading to both comedic and heartfelt moments that keep audiences engaged.
The Arconia trio is a lovable group, and their journey through mysteries and personal challenges will continue to resonate with viewers.
The Charm of the Arconia Setting
The Arconia itself plays a vital role in the series, serving as both a character and a setting that adds to the full atmosphere.
Its beautiful architecture, combined with its quirky residents, creates a unique environment that enhances the storytelling. The building feels alive, with its history and secrets unfolding with each episode.
The choice of the Goosebury Theater as a setting for the spooky episode is particularly fitting. The theater not only provides an eerie backdrop but also serves as a reminder of the world of performance and art.
This duality emphasizes the blending of reality and the supernatural, making the storyline all the more compelling.
Furthermore, the attention to detail in the set design and cinematography contributes to the full experience. The dark, moody lighting and the stylized presentation of certain scenes enhance the tension and atmosphere, immersing viewers in the Only Murders in the Building world.
Each episode feels like a carefully crafted piece of art, drawing viewers into the narrative and keeping them invested in the characters’ journeys.
The Future of Only Murders in the Building
As the series progresses, fans eagerly anticipate what’s next for the Arconia trio. With each new episode, the show continues to surprise viewers with unexpected twists, engaging character arcs, and a perfect balance of humor and mystery.
The combination of a haunted theater, ghosts, and the complexities of friendship keeps audiences entertained and guessing.
Only Murders in the Building has proven to be a breath of fresh air in the mystery-comedy genre, offering a unique blend of clever storytelling and relatable characters. The show’s ability to tackle serious themes while maintaining an full lighthearted tone is a testament to its skillful writing and direction.
As viewers continue to watch the Arconia trio show their way through spooky encounters and personal challenges, they are sure to find themselves laughing, gasping, and reflecting on the deeper meanings behind each episode.
Ultimately, “Ghost Light” exemplifies the show’s charm. It not only entertains but also encourages viewers to show themes of friendship, grief, and the unknown.
With its engaging characters and cleverly woven storylines, Only Murders in the Building remains a delightful addition to the television show. As the series continues to unfold, audiences can expect even more thrills, laughter, and surprises in the episodes to come.
In a world where mystery series often lean toward darker themes, Only Murders in the Building stands out by offering a fresh perspective that intertwines humor with horror.
The ghostly escapades in Season 3’s “Ghost Light” provide a delightful mix of spookiness and character schemes, leaving viewers eager for more. As the Arconia trio tackles mysteries, reveals supernatural elements, and shows the complexities of their friendship, the series continues to attract audiences.
What makes Only Murders in the Building truly special is its ability to evoke genuine emotions, from laughter to suspense to poignant moments of reflection. Each episode invites viewers to ponder not just the mysteries at hand but also the underlying human experiences that connect us all.
The Arconia itself, with its rich history and quirky residents, serves as the perfect backdrop for these schemes, making every twist and turn feel personal and relatable.
As viewers tune in to see what lies ahead for the Arconia trio, they can be assured of an entertaining journey filled with laughter, suspense, and a touch of the supernatural.
The anticipation for future episodes, along with the hope of a Halloween special, keeps fans engaged and excited about what new adventures await in this enchanting world.
