The season 4 finale of Only Murders in the Building, “My Best Friend’s Wedding,” is a satisfying conclusion to the Sazz Pataki storyline, punctuated by genuine emotion and a dash of absurdity. The episode effectively ties up loose ends while setting the stage for future mysteries within the hallowed halls of the Arconia.
The initial hostage scenario, featuring a surprisingly ineffectual Marshall (Jin Ha), plays out with a blend of tension and humor. Charles’s (Steve Martin) precarious ledge walk, bolstered by Oliver’s (Martin Short) unexpected bravery and oddly appropriate merengue moves, provides a comedic high point. While Marshall’s motive – a potent cocktail of jealousy and thwarted ambition – feels somewhat predictable, the flashbacks with Sazz (Jane Lynch) add a touch of poignancy to their ill-fated connection.
The episode’s strengths lie in its character-driven moments. Oliver’s personal growth, influenced by his relationship with Loretta, manifests in his willingness to confront his fears for his friends. Loretta’s acceptance of Oliver’s eccentricities, including his close bond with Charles and Mabel (Selena Gomez), underscores the genuine affection between them. The wedding itself, a visual spectacle of joy and camaraderie, offers a welcome break from the season’s darker elements. The image of the trio escorting Oliver down the aisle perfectly captures the show’s core: the enduring nature of friendship amidst the chaos.
While Sazz’s murder reaches a resolution, the episode’s closing moments introduce a fresh enigma. Lester’s lifeless form in the courtyard fountain, the crimson water a stark reminder of violence, plunges the Arconia back into uncertainty. The timely appearance of Tea Leoni’s Sofia Caccimelio, desperately seeking help to locate her missing husband, further complicates matters. The trio’s initial refusal to take her case doesn’t preclude a possible connection to Lester’s demise.
“My Best Friend’s Wedding” serves as a suitable ending to a season marked by both highs and lows. While some plot points felt strained, the episode consistently delivers the show’s signature wit, heartwarming interactions, and a generous helping of suspense.
All seasons of Only Murders in the Building are available for streaming on Hulu.
