Episode 3 of Only Murders in the Building's third season kicks off with Oliver's fingers dancing across the piano keys, not quite pounding them but weaving melodies in a desperate attempt to conjure a masterpiece for Donna and Cliff's imminent visit. The clock has been his companion through the night, as he toils tirelessly to conjure even a glimmer of an idea that would entice them to fund his musical dreams. However, Howard and Jonathan's assistance falls short, leaving Oliver with an empty slate when the big moment arrives.
All Oliver possesses is a vague vision, a blueprint for a musical that begs to be realized. Donna, ever the shrewd producer, lays down a challenge: a showstopper, capable of luring audiences from afar, must emerge within three days. If Oliver can deliver, she'll consider backing the project.
Elsewhere, Charles and Mabel embark on a quest to unravel Ben's murder, their minds swirling with the baffling question, "Who would harbor such malice to slay Ben twice over?" The elusive handkerchief holds the key to their investigation, and they split up in pursuit of clues.
As Oliver summons Charles for rehearsals, Mabel sneaks a peek into Ben's apartment before it's sanitized of memories. Kimber and Ty join her in this poignant exploration, while Charles, ever the tactician, plays a double game: overtly searching for the handkerchief-less culprit and covertly crafting a heartfelt memorial—a quilt woven from the collective hankies.
Oliver then steps into the spotlight, his energy igniting a spark within his cast as he attempts to steer them past the grief of Ben's passing. But his announcement of the musical's new direction casts a momentary shadow, until Loretta's entrance illuminates the room with her exhilarating news—a network drama audition that could propel her career into the stratosphere. The room fills with renewed hope and ambition, as the Arconia's residents forge ahead, each with their own dreams and secrets, in the wake of tragedy.
Furthermore, Dickie, Ben's managerial sibling and guardian, graciously extends an offer to become Mabel's mentor in the business. As Mabel ascends the elevator alongside Tobert, the meticulous documentarian gathering his gear from the apartment, their intentions diverge yet they unite in secrecy, concealed within an ornate wardrobe when Dickie unexpectedly enters the premises.
Oliver's anxiety festers as rehearsals stray from his vision's path. Howard's relentless suggestions to explore alternate funding avenues are met with Oliver's resolute dismissal. Dickie, in his leisurely fashion, orchestrates a subtle encounter between Tobert and Mabel, fostering their acquaintance amidst the revelation that Ben's camera, on the fateful night, continued to roll, capturing the unthinkable on film. Their escape from the wardrobe coincides with Dickie's departure, leaving a palpable spark between the two.
Oliver and Charles concoct a devious strategy, where Charles clandestinely undermines Oliver's authority to the rest of the cast, all for the sole purpose of securing the coveted handkerchiefs rather than rejuvenating the production's momentum. The ensemble, yearning for the play's original essence, urges Oliver to abandon the musical transformation and embrace its simplicity.
A poignant artistic communion unfolds between Loretta and Oliver by the piano's gentle melody. Their connection, though not physical, resonates deeply as Loretta endeavors to illuminate Oliver's unique genius—his ability to unveil the vulnerability and purity beneath the flamboyant facade of his productions. Just as their discourse reaches a crescendo, Dickie bursts into the apartment, bearing joyous tidings: Loretta has secured her role. Her elation is palpable as she bounds with joy, her triumph echoing throughout the space.
Alas, a predicament arises as the cameras are poised to roll in LA the very next week. Loretta faces a daunting choice: to pursue her passion for the musical or adhere to her contractual obligations for the play. Her heart leans heavily towards the stage, where her dreams reside, yet Oliver's threat of legal action looms large, a stark reminder of her binding agreement.
In a moment of contrition, Oliver seeks to mend fences, apologizing sincerely to Loretta. He concedes, offering her release but with a condition—a favor in the form of a heartfelt rendition of the Nanny Lullaby. Just as the air thickens with anticipation, Donna and Cliff burst through the door, their arrival a whirlwind of emotions.
Meanwhile, Mabel's relentless pursuit of truth propels her to urge Tobert to unlock the forbidden drive, revealing the hidden footage. Haunted by past misdeeds, where he inadvertently exploited an infant elephant's struggles, Tobert reluctantly complies. Together, they uncover a chilling revelation: someone had infiltrated their sanctuary, their face shrouded in mystery. Mabel vows to safeguard against such intrusions, while Oliver convenes a gathering in his abode, where Loretta's lullaby echoes, a mesmerizing melody that ignites a spark of belief within each soul.
Cliff, swayed by the magic of the moment, defies Donna's cautionary advice and grants the musical the green light. This act marks a pivotal turning point for the fledgling producer, who dares to forge her own path, daring to step out of her mother's formidable shadow and trust her instincts, even if it means navigating treacherous waters that threaten her career's stability.
Loretta, with a heart full of conviction, announces her decision to abandon the play and embrace the musical wholeheartedly. Oliver, overcome with emotion, seals his gratitude with a tender kiss. Amidst this unfolding drama, a clue surfaces: Kimber's missing handkerchief, a subtle hint that points fingers towards her. Did jealousy consume her, fueled by the fear of being overshadowed? And now, as Loretta shines brightly, will she too face the same treacherous fate? The stage is set for a thrilling climax, where truth, love, and ambition intertwine in a tale of courage and self-discovery.
