Only Murders in the Building season 4 episode 2 review: Wild, wild West Tower

Only Murders in the Building season 4 returned with its second episode on September 3, 2024, continuing the tense narrative from last week's premiere. This time, the murder feels much more personal as the victim is Jane Lynch's Sazz, Charles' long-term stunt double and friend. This episode picks up from the rather morose ending of the previous episode and continues the narrative into a new wave of investigation, the first of this season.

The second episode, titled Gates of Heaven, takes the viewers and the protagonists, Mabel (Selena Gomez), Oliver (Martin Short), and Charles (Steve Martin) across a fascinating episode filled with many fascinating discoveries. One of the most exciting parts of this particular episode was the introduction of the West Wing, where we were greeted by some eccentric characters like the Sauce family and Stink Eye Joe (the ever-brilliant Richard Kind).

This episode also contains its share of drama and thrills, with many revelations, a deep dive into the investigation, the surprise appearance of a beloved (and dangerous) character, and a twisty ending.

All in all, Only Murders in the Building season 4 episode 2 serves a perfect mixture that all fans of the Hulu show would love and adore.

*Warning- There may be major spoilers for Only Murders in the Building season 4 episode 2 ahead.

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Only Murders in the Building season 4 episode 2 does not slow anything down

With three whole seasons before, many would expect a show to slow down and show the first signs of fatigue. But as of the second episode of the fourth season, Only Murders in the Building is just as fun, ambitious, and smart, leaving no stones unturned in its quest for pure entertainment and storytelling.

The second episode begins with the familiar Arconia and takes on a familiar investigation format. One of the best things about this episode is its blend of serious emotional depth, which comes from a pitiable Charles and the death of the familiar Sazz, and the situational comedy that sparks out in the oddest of moments.

One of the scenes that Only Murders in the Building fans will remember for a long time to come was Charles trying to salvage Sazz's ashes in the oddest possible way. Oliver also provides some memorable lines before leaving to investigate the West Tower, a fascinating addition to the story.

The story of Charles and that of Mabel and Oliver vary in this episode, with the latter two carrying their investigation to the building opposite theirs and Charles mourning the death of his long-term friend and confidante.

Charles' side of the story is enriched by Jane Lynch's presence as a spirit Sazz (from Charles's subconscious). Moreover, there is also a delightful cameo of Amy Ryan, with prison guard brains on her clothes (yes, brains), and the ensuing comic situation after she leaves abruptly.

On the other side, Mabel and Oliver meet some of the most colorful characters of the season, the Sauce family and Stink Eye Joe (a delightful Richard Kind) at the West Tower. The show also takes this moment to introduce the evident mystery surrounding this building.

The episode ends with some new revelations and clues that would be pivotal in the future of the series.

All in all, this episode of Only Murders in the Building advanced the narrative in many significant ways and helped set a base for the coming episodes. It also served some great comedy and was overall a brilliant half-hour of television.

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The first two episodes of Only Murders in the Building season 4 are now streaming on Hulu.