Only Murders in the Building is fun and entertaining from the start. I caught a review from David Bianculli on Fresh Air just prior to the show's release that grabbed my attention and had me marking the release date on the calendar. His review is spot on. The show is as good as advertised. Those disappointed after expecting a novel and superior crime/mystery series are partly missing the point. The mystery cliches are part of the humorous parody. The podcast plot line provides an amusing relatability - many watchers will know the experience of discovering a friend or acquaintance shares an affinity for the same true crime podcast (e.g, Serial, etc.). The enthusiasm for such podcasts is noted with a hilarious reaction by a detective outside the murder scene to the three main characters snooping around: "Goddamnit, What F'n podcast are you all hooked on?" Many viewers will also connect with the characters from a childhood and/or adult secret desire to be a real crime detective.

Martin, a co-creator, is more subdued and cynical in his role, allowing Short and Gomez to balance either side of him with their typical high-energy and dry sarcasm, respectively. Gomez really shines and her character has depth. The viewer gets to share the tension and conflict Mabel must feel hiding her secrets from the other two.

This show hooked me like I hoped it would when I heard about it, and I simply can't wait for more.